Everything You Need To Know About The Hermès Cut Watch

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These days loads of people rely primarily on mobile phones and digital watches to keep track of time. Because of their popularity, you’d think these devices would render analog timepieces like the Hermès Cut, obsolete. However, this is not the case. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. How come? Well, the answer is pretty simple. Buyers, especially the hip crowd view smartwatch wearers as “tech dorks.” In other words, *uncool*. Using tech gadgets rather than finely crafted mechanical masterpieces.

As a result, sales of old-school but très chic wristwatches have not dwindled. Manufacturers owe their thanks to millions of horologists globally, and countless trendsetters who are quickly snapping up mechanical watches.

Quick navigation:

• • Expect the Unexpected
  • The Cut at a Glance
  • Hermès Cut Variations
  • Strap Selection
  • Hermès Cut Prices
  • Final Thoughts

credit: Hermès.com

Timepieces as a style accessory is old news. Since its inception, the watch has always been as much about fashion as it is about function. Thus, finding just the right balance between both qualities is crucial. While trendy designs and avant-garde models are readily available, buying classic timepieces pairs well with OOTDs so much better.

Sure, you can walk into a fast-fashion boutique and nab an inexpensive albeit disposable watch. But why do that when you get better value in luxe pieces? A few crowd go-tos are from watchmakers like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin. But those are more on the top end and currently barely available with overly inflated prices. Check this selection of all-time classics that you can actually get today:

• • Cartier Ballon Bleu
  • Cartier Panthere
  • Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso
  • Omega Constellation
  • Bulgari Serpenti
  • Chanel Premiere

If however, you prefer to stray from the usual choices there are other underrated labels to score well-crafted watches from. One such designer that comes to mind is Hermès. And as it happens, their latest model, the Hermès Cut is a prime example.

The Cut, which was launched this year, is a timeless and understated companion to any outfit. And I mean, ANY! You see, unlike previous models, this one is like owning two high-end timepieces for a fraction of the cost. Sounds amazing right?

The Cut at a Glance

credit: Hermès.com

Amongst the assortment of luxe Hermès goods, it’s their watches that are often overlooked. A shame really, since their exquisite selection of time pieces can rival well-known watch manufacturers. That said, if you’re searching for a stylish piece to complete your daily fits, scope out this beauty.

On the surface, the Cut has a round case with a soft silhouette. The wristwatch has a diameter of 36mm and a thickness of 10.3mm. You can spot its crown sitting at an 45 degree angle between the 1 and 2 hour markers. And upon closer inspection, the brand’s signature H is engraved into the flat surface of the knob’s metal.

Its opaline silver-hued dial showcases a distinct but neat typography. Tell the time with its sleek and minimalist hands. When you flip the watch over, you’ll notice a sapphire crystal caseback housing the Caliber H1912 and a rotor engraved with the Maison’s hallmark H pattern. The Cut also boasts 50 hours power reserve and up to 100 meters of water resistance.

Are you impressed yet? But wait, there’s more! LOL

credit: Hermès.com

Straps aside (we’ll get to that later), the Hermès Cut has two quintessential designs. The first is an elegant steel model with an iridescent silver face, paired with sterling hour and minute hands. To help you keep track of the seconds, its designated ticker features a luminous dot with the iconic Hermès orange.  Beneath the hands is a gray and orange combo accentuating the minutes track. Even the crown received a touch of Hermès orange which is exclusive to the steel models.

credit: Hermès.com

Comparatively, the two-tone stainless steel and rose gold model showcases the two hues throughout the wristwatch design elements. The dials on this version are noticeably missing the trademark orange accents. Maybe they’re not needed due to the warmth of the rose gold. Nonetheless, the style choice does not diminish the posh quiet luxe vibe the watch exudes.

If you prefer a more extravagant look, you can opt for either model with some added bling. And we’re not talking just one shiny jewel. With the Hermès Cut, you get 56 diamonds set into the bezel of the timepiece. Talk about WOW factor!

credit: Hermès.com

With each collection, the French design house introduces, shoppers can expect meticulously crafted in-vogue timepieces. The Cut with its innovative strap design is no exception. Taking cues from smartwatches, Hermès rolled out models with interchangeable bands. Available in the standard metal bracelet, owners can change it out for a rubber alternative. This tiny detail transforms this wrist candy from casual elegance to sporty in minutes.

In typical Hermès fashion, these newly created rubber straps come in a range of recognizable brand hues. Choose from well-loved colors like orange, white, bleu jean, capucine, gris etain, gris perle, glycine, and vert criquet. You can buy the fun bands separately for $250 or grab the model already sporting the contemporary bracelet.

Hermès Cut Prices

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the price point of the Cut competes with models from prestigious watchmakers. After all, you cannot expect less from the coveted European brand. That said, here’s how much this 2-in-1 wristwatch will set you back.

Hermès Cut Prices U.S. market 2024

Before you hit *add to cart* on the Hermes website, here are a few more things to consider.

Hermès Picotin Special Releases

Beyond the “basic” models, the French label also produces several special edition bucket handbags. Other than the Lucky Daisy, collectors can set their sights on owning the style in ostrich or crocodile leather. Another sought-after style is the Cargo Toile.  This limited Picotin canvas tote with leather trim features multiple pockets inspired by the military uniform.

If you’re searching for something edgier, pick up the Picotin So Black.  This bucket bag combines gorgeous black leather and dark Ruthenium hardware. Like any limited release, the Picotin deluxe lineup sells out quickly and is only available to frequent spenders. As such your best chance at snagging these designs will be the secondary market.

Off the bat, I love the integration of swappable watch straps. It’s great, especially for people building their collections. It also allows me to customize the timepiece to match countless items in my wardrobe. What’s more, the low-key aesthetic of the steel bands makes them ideal for pairing or stacking with statement jewelry like my Cartier Love bangle or sweet VCA Vintage Alhambra bracelets.

When I want to change the band myself, it’s relatively easy and requires no special tools. The watch straps are coming off with the press of a quick-release button.

Although touted as a women’s accessory, the watch with its streamlined appearance can be worn by anybody. Its sizeable face is just a few millimeters short of the standard men’s 38mm dial making it perfect for wearers who prefer a less bulky piece on their wrists. But overall, the design is geared towards us ladies.

Unfortunately, even the interchangeable bands don’t make up for their potential value depreciation. Similar to any limited-release goods, the current demand for the watch is high. Thus, we can expect the Cut to be traded by resellers above MSRP. But once consumers drop it for the next new design, the value on the secondary market will plummet.

So, if you ask me, would I buy the Cut as an investment piece? Probably not. At least currently, Hermès watches don’t hold their value long term since they are seen as fashion watches rather than high horology. However, Hermès is trying to change that perception.

Buying the Cut watch for what it is, would make more sense. Just ignore the investment perspective and enjoy the piece. It is not lacking behind any other brand at comparable price points, and pairing it with your Hermès purchase history, you’ll for sure get closer to that new quota bag we all desire.