Hermès H08 Squelette Is A New Dimension In Transparency
The Hermès H08 has always occupied an intriguing space between sportiness and sophistication. Introduced in 2021, its distinctive form, hovering between a circle and a square, gave Hermès a contemporary canvas on which to explore a very different interpretation of the modern men’s watch.
Now, with the H08 Squelette, the Maison turns its attention inwards, revealing the architecture of time itself. Skeletonisation has long been one of fine watchmaking’s most expressive disciplines. By removing material from the movement, the watchmaker exposes components that would normally remain hidden, transforming mechanical necessity into something visually compelling. In the H08 Squelette, Hermès takes this idea further, creating an ever-changing landscape of bridges, gears and openings where light and shadow become part of the design.
At its heart is the new Manufacture Hermès H1978 S, a self-winding mechanical movement measuring just 27 by 27mm and 4.57mm thick. Comprising 168 components and beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4Hz, the calibre provides a useful 60-hour power reserve. Its mainplate and bridges are crafted in PVD-treated titanium, with sandblasted and sunburst finishes that emphasise the movement’s architectural character.
The result is less an exercise in simply displaying a movement than an invitation to explore it. The eye travels through the openworked structure, following vanishing lines and interlocking gear trains towards the centre of the watch. Components overlap and intersect, creating depth within the relatively compact dimensions of the H08 case. What might otherwise be purely functional becomes almost theatrical, with each element contributing to a miniature mechanical stage.
The 38mm cushion-shaped case is crafted from satin-brushed titanium with a matt DLC coating, giving the watch a distinctly contemporary and almost mineral presence. This is contrasted by the sunburst satin-brushed black ceramic bezel, whose mirror-polished chamfers catch the light and provide a sharper visual definition. The combination of materials creates a carefully judged dialogue between density and transparency.
The openworked black dial continues this graphic approach. Applied Arabic numerals are treated with either blue or grey Super-LumiNova®, while black baton hands receive matching luminous treatment. A grey transfer-printed minutes track provides the final detail, maintaining the restrained monochrome character while adding just enough contrast to ensure legibility.
Two interpretations are offered. The blue version combines blue accents with either a Bleu Zanzibar or black woven-effect rubber strap, while the grey variation takes a more understated tone-on-tone approach and can be paired with a Bleu Abysse, dune or vert moyen strap. Each reinforces the H08’s balance of technical character and distinctive Hermès colour sensibility.
Despite its contemporary appearance, the H08 Squelette remains firmly rooted in the practical qualities expected of a modern sports watch. It is fitted with a screw-lock crown, anti-glare sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back, and is water-resistant to 10 bar. A folding clasp in black DLC-treated satin-brushed titanium completes the design.
With the H08 Squelette, Hermès has taken a familiar watch and opened it up to reveal an entirely different personality. The result is a watch in which movement architecture becomes the dial, technical construction becomes decoration and transparency becomes an integral part of the aesthetic.
For Hermès, time has never been simply about measurement. The H08 Squelette offers another interpretation, one in which the passing of time becomes something to observe, explore and enjoy.
Technical Specifications:
MOVEMENT
Manufacture Hermès H1978 S movement
Mechanical self-winding
Crafted in Switzerland
27 x 27 mm, 4.57 mm thick
168 components
28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
60-hour power reserve
PVD-treated titanium decoration on the mainplate and bridges
FUNCTIONS
Hours, minutes, seconds
DIAL
Openworked black dial
Applied Arabic numerals enhanced with blue or grey Super-LumiNova®
Grey transfer-printed minutes track
Black baton-type hands enhanced with blue or grey Super-LumiNova®
CASE
DLC-treated satin-brushed titanium case, sunburst satin-brushed black ceramic bezel with mirror-polished chamfers
Cushion-shaped, 38 mm
Screw-lock crown
Anti-glare sapphire crystal and case-back
Water-resistant to 10 bar
STRAP
Bleu Zanzibar or black rubber
Bleu abysse, dune or vert moyen rubber
Folding clasp in black DLC-treated satin-brushed titanium, 21 mm
Price upon request
For more information please visit Hermès