Galop d’Hermes is the brainchild of furniture designer Ini Archibong for Hermes

You got to give it to Hermes for never running out of ways to incorporate elements of the equestrian world into its designs. Its scarves, jewellery, fragrances and of course watches have all gainfully embodied this theme. For its latest timepiece collection, however, Hermes enlisted the help of independent designer Ini Archibong whose visionary approach fused perfectly with the French maison's rich heritage and progressive stance on design.

Drawing inspiration from the horse riding harness which is at the centre of many if not all Hermes designs, Archibong took notes on its ingenuity, technicality and beauty. Then, with elegance, he distils these key elements into Galop d'Hermes – a watch that combines aerodynamic curves with functional purity and refined details. 

Wearing delicately on the wrist, Galop d'Hermes has a shaped case resembling a stirrup, so like the Arceau its top and bottom lugs are constructed in different styles. On top, the strap has been integrated seamlessly to the case while at the bottom there is an angular loop where the strap goes around. The crown positioned at six o'clock preserves the perfectly symmetrical aesthetic yet each time you view it from a different angle, this watch offers a fresh perspective. Indeed, nothing is predictable about Galop d'Hermes and there are surprises everywhere.

Its sapphire crystal is domed in spite of the unusual case shape and it allows light to reflect and diffuse in all directions. The hour numerals were created exclusively for Hermes – note the especially playful style of the numerals 4 and 8. More importantly, the printed numerals unfurl gradually from the smallest and leanest at the top, to the largest and densest at the bottom. Its dial is sober and sophisticated, finished with a grained silvered effect plus an opaline centre, with gilded hands that echo the shape of the case.

Free-spirited, witty and passionate, Galop d'Hermes is paired with a variety of gorgeous leather straps ranging from natural or black Barenia calfskin, to matte alligator in etoupe, to polished alligator in sapphire blue, ember, raspberry, blackcurrant, elephant grey or black. This quartz-powered luxury timepiece also exists in diamond paved cases of rose gold or stainless steel.