W&W 2025: Hermès Le Temps Suspendu (Live Photos)

The Hermès Arceau Le Temps Suspendu returns with a sophisticated redesign of the groundbreaking 2011 original. This new iteration showcases a sleek 42 mm case that houses an elegant open-worked dial, offering a captivating view of the signature "Time Suspended" complication.

Available in either 18K white or 5N 18K rose gold, the cases are complemented by three striking dial options: sunburst blue, sunburst brun désert—desert brown—, and rouge sellier—saddle red. The collection maintains the Arceau line's timeless aesthetic, featuring the asymmetrical lugs that have become a hallmark of the design—each meticulously crafted in Hermès' dedicated watchmaking facilities.

The Le Temps Suspendu's signature feature is its ability to "pause time" at the press of a button. When activated, the hour and minute hands sweep to form a V at 12 o'clock, effectively hiding the current time and creating the illusion that time has stopped. Meanwhile, the movement continues tracking the actual time in the background. When the wearer presses the pusher again, the hands instantly return to show the correct time.

This whimsical complication was developed in collaboration with master watchmaker Jean-Marc Wiederrecht of Agenhor. The watch's design is quintessentially Hermès—elegant and understated with exceptional attention to detail. When it debuted, the Le Temps Suspendu won the "Men's Watch Prize" at the prestigious Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève, cementing its status as not merely a novelty but a significant horological achievement.

Powered by the in-house automatic Hermès H1837 movement, the mechanical heart of this timepiece can be admired through the transparent case back. This proprietary calibre seamlessly operates the watch's distinctive time-pausing function. The mechanical movement contains approximately 360 components working in harmony to create this poetic function.

What makes this timepiece especially compelling is its philosophical statement. In our constantly connected, time-driven world, the Le Temps Suspendu offers a moment of respite—a deliberate pause from the tyranny of minutes and hours. It represents the luxury of temporarily forgetting about time, embodying the Hermès spirit of playful elegance and emotional connection to objects.

Sticker Price USD 45,825 for white gold and USD 39,800 for rose gold. For more info on Hermès click here.

Posted on April 22, 2025 and filed under WatchesWonders2025, Hermès.