The quirky creative draws on the luxury brand's history as a maker of saddles and equestrian leathers to design Galop d'Hermès
It was a rare combination of luck, talent and Californian charm that brought Ini Archibong to the attention of Philippe Delhotal, artistic director of La Montre Hermès, back in 2015.
After the pair decided to collaborate, the furniture designer was asked to create the maison’s next signature women’s timepiece, Galop d’Hermès, which has turned heads because of its creative take on the equestrian heritage of the Parisian leather-goods maker.
Here, Archibong talks art and design, as well as going against the norm.
What do you look for in a watch?
When choosing a watch, it’s important to establish an intimate connection with it. Watches are luxuries rather than necessities, so wearing one that expresses your personality is essential.
Was creating Galop d’Hermès a challenge?
Working on smaller objects is a more intimate experience because every action has a greater impact. Also, a watch is a companion that goes everywhere with you. But for any object I follow a procedure. First I think of a concept, which my creation is then built around.
Tell us about the concept behind Galop d’Hermès.
I’m free-spirited, so when it comes to timekeeping my focus is on enjoyment. A watch is a wearable piece of art and I wanted it to be recognisable, so the case is based on a saddle’s stirrup.