Vernis Martin technique of lacquering was developed in France, in the end of 17th century, when those Chinese and Japanese lacquered objects became popular…
And while the Asians performed their lacquered works in black and red, French had used blue, green and yellow shades as well. Hermes brand had used Vernic Martin technique for its new watches, Arceau Cheval d’Orient, which make a unique and limited edition series of miniature works of art.
Even tough, lacquering as a technique is most often used on wood and bamboo, it is occasionally done on metal surfaces and such is the case with Arceau Cheval d’Orient collection. Dexterous masters of Hermes brand had expertly used this technique and sophisticated brushes in order to create works of art. This process which consumes a lot of time is started by layering one coat of black lacquer – pigments mixed with copal varnish – after which the dial must be left to dry for three days. After that, there is the second coat applying process, only after the first one is finely sanded. This process is repeated thirty times minimum, in order to achieve the perfect glossy black shade, which will make the other colors pop out.
Horse motifs are then applied and brought to life by applying colors. The colors are individually applied in multiple layers in order to create the perfect pattern. Arceau Cheval d’Orient watches are available in three versions, each of them being limited to 24 pieces only. They have Manufacture Hermes automatic H1837 caliber movement, settled in a 41mm case made from white gold. They are also garnished with matte black alligator strap with a white gold buckle.
