Post by GLADIATOR on Mar 3, 2013 15:07:37 GMT -6
I am just back a trip to Switzerland, the undisputed heart of watch design and making, so much so that it amazes me that companies with the standing of Hermes feel they must distort the truth of 'Horology'
Flicking through a magazine in the airport lounge, I come across this lovely piece. Immediately I am impressed and delighted to see modern designs using the beautiful designs of the past.
Especially one as super as this and with out any doubt the 'beginning of the wristwatch' an are of such great interest and passion to me.
But on reading closely it says, and I quote
"On this photo dating from 1912, Jacqueline Hermes wears the ingenious leather strap encasing a pocket watch 'designed by her father'
A century later, Hermes draws upon its historical expertise in re-issuing an exclusive limited series call In The Pocket""Designed by her Father - in 1912" - Really? I think not.
We know these leather conversion straps - known as 'WRISTLETS' were worn by officers in the Boer War some 12 years prior to 1912!
I have copies of adverts from 1901 designed by a London Company! Indeed we have mention of these Wristlets as far back as 1887 - so how does Hermes justify designing (inventing) these in 1912 - I think not.
That said, I LOVE the concept and design, and I am glad that Hermes has re-launched such a fantastic concept - I ust wish they would stick to the facts. The 'WRISTLET' was designed in the 1890 by a London company, and came to fame by officers who wore them in the Boer War (1899 - 1902)
Here is the Hermes Advert - Its a GREAT - COOL Concept - See Jacqueline in top right picture - wearing her 'Wristlet'
Here We have a soldier (actually Major General Baden Powell) Boer War (1901) wearing his 'Wristlet)
Here we have the advert from 1901.
And my own Wristlet and article:
So Hermes - 'eat your heart out' - another myth bites the dust.
Mine - Currently on display at NAWCC Museum - Pennsylvania.
Regards
adam
