Rocabar de rire: The latest timepiece from Hermès’ Arceau collection

"...Arceau “Rocabar de rire” stands as a poetic ode to craftsmanship, imagination, and artistry—an exquisite creation from Hermès, the French luxury house synonymous with the iconic ‘H’. This latest timepiece brings to life the story of a mischievous horse on the dial of the Arceau watch, blending various sophisticated artisanal techniques such as horsehair marquetry, hand-engraving, and miniature painting. Inspired by a whimsical illustration by Dimitri Rybaltchenko originally featured on the Rocabar de rire silk scarf, the motif has been reinterpreted into a stunningly intricate horological artwork..."

Designed in 1978 by Henri d’Origny, the Arceau watch is recognised for its round case and asymmetrical stirrup-shaped lugs—an unmistakable hallmark of Hermès. The Rocabar de rire model elevates the collection further, presenting a playful horse captured mid-gesture with its tongue playfully sticking out. This lively figure is set against a striped background, crafted through the meticulous technique of horsehair marquetry. Remarkably, the horse is animated by an “on-demand impulse” mechanical system, activated via a pusher at 9 o’clock, allowing the whimsical scene to come alive at the wearer’s command.

The creation of this lively motif is a testament to Hermès’ dedication to craftsmanship. Master engravers use traditional tools to sculpt the horse in fine detail, entirely by hand. Once complete, miniature painters carefully apply layers of colour to the engraved figure, each layer individually fired to reveal a richness in tone and depth that is entirely unique. The final touch involves painstakingly selecting horsehairs in varying hues, which are cut and affixed one by one onto a brass base to form the striped background—a true labour of love and precision.

The Rocabar de rire timepiece subtly evokes the aesthetic of its namesake Rocabar, a striped fringed blanket historically used in Hermès’ equestrian heritage. Its case, crafted from white gold, measures 41 mm in diameter and houses the Hermès H1837 self-winding movement—manufactured in Switzerland. The calibre is beautifully decorated with circular graining and snailed patterns, while the bridges and rotor are adorned with the signature ‘sprinkling of Hs’ motif. The movement can be admired through a transparent sapphire crystal caseback. Completing the watch is a luxurious alligator leather strap in Bleu Abysse, which perfectly complements the vibrant tones of the dial.

Arceau Rocabar de rire is far more than a traditional timepiece. It is a symbol of creative freedom, joy, and exceptional artistry, encapsulating the spirit of Hermès in every detail. With only 12 pieces crafted for the entire world, this rare collector’s edition is a celebration of horological storytelling at its finest.

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