27.05.2022
Here’s one design that doesn’t require a sales pitch. Heck, you can even whisper its name to fashion connoisseurs and they can tell you all about its history in less words than a haiku. The Hermès Kelly watch was birthed in 1975 as a time-telling object. But hold on, it would be a disservice not to first mention its original inspiration and forebear: the Kelly bag. Created nearly a century ago in the 1930s, this trapezoid-shaped leather bag was designed by Robert Dumas with a cut-out flap, side straps, and a metal clasp with an optional use of a padlock hardware. But it wasn’t until the late 1950s that the bag earned its clout... and a new permanent name. Hollywood royalty and Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly used the bag as a shield of sorts against the prying eyes of the public and the paps who were speculating about her pregnancy. Such was the fanfare that the bag was quickly renamed as the Kelly from the less catchy sac à depèches. Fast forward to 1975 and the Parisian luxury house decided to convert the famous clasp and lock into a fashionable accessory, one that even doubles as a timepiece. The original versions featured the house’s famous leather, an idea that still continues to this day. Fundamentally untouched since the early days of its conception, Philippe Delhotal (Hermès Horloger’s creative director) thought it was time to update this icon in 2022, timed perfectly to endorse the current demand for metal bracelet watches. At the centre of this remix are new links that take reference from the famous clasp. Dimensions aside, what remains is the design of the padlock, the famous hardware that dangles from the wearer’s wrist creating a playful interaction when on the move. A fresh take on this metal padlock is its function: it can be detached and worn as a necklace, paired with a leather clochette that is another homage to the iconic carrier. Now, the hard part is deciding which metal fits your fancy. Steel or rose gold? With or without diamonds? Make your best pick because this is one accessory that won’t go out of style in this lifetime.
