Creative Mind: Philippe Delhotal
The creative director of Hermès Horologer wants his designs to evoke a certain emotion for the wearer
Timepieces are generally revered for their gadgets and gears, complications and calculations. It’s a world that takes itself very seriously, but in the capable hands of Philippe Delhotal, creative director of Hermès Horologer since 2008, extraordinary technicality and precision are leavened with a sense of humor and stylish playfulness completely in line with the maison’s ethos. “I want people wearing our creations to feel a certain emotion, to be in a dreamlike space and to enjoy the present moment,” he explains.
Released at the end of 2025, Arceau Jour de Casting encapsulates that sensibility with three watches featuring adorable groomed dogs. Charming and endearing at first glance, they are a feat of artisanry, combining a mix of miniature painting, wood marquetry, and enamel to capture the appealingly mischievous poses, with each example set in a white-gold case decorated with 71 diamonds.
Breakthrough moment: “I like very much the new, 2025 version of the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu, as it reminds me of one of the most exciting moments I experienced with Hermès Horologer—when we introduced the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu in 2011. We came up with an idea that was not seen before: to give the power of stopping the race of time, which is a paradox if you think about the purpose of our industry.”
Design philosophy: “The freedom to create, the constant quest for beautiful materials, and the transmission of exceptional craftsmanship enable the creation of useful and elegant objects that stand the test of time and forge the uniqueness of Hermès. I feel lucky to be part of this journey.”
A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2026 Spring Issue in the section “Creative Minds.” Subscribe to the magazine.