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The house of Hermès begins 2026 by expanding one of its most recognizable watch designs. The Hermès Cape Cod collection now includes a new mini format, introducing seven compact versions that reinterpret the model’s distinctive geometry.
Originally launched in 1991, the Cape Cod was designed by Henri d’Origny, whose work for Hermès also includes hundreds of the maison’s famous silk scarves. The watch is defined by an unusual composition: a square dial framed by a rounded rectangular case. The design draws inspiration from the structure of an anchor chain link, where a central bar divides the link into two mirrored shapes. In the Cape Cod case, this concept translates into a visual interplay between curved forms and a central square.
The new mini models measure 27 × 20 mm, making them the smallest watches currently offered within the Cape Cod family. Larger versions of the collection remain available in 31, 37, and 41 mm sizes. The mini series includes seven references in total: three crafted in yellow gold and four in stainless steel. All are powered by quartz movements and paired with leather straps.
Among the gold models, one version pairs a burgundy dial with a matching strap, reflecting the continued presence of deep red tones in contemporary design. Another yellow-gold edition is set with 46 diamonds and features a sunburst doré dial—a term used by Hermès to describe a radiant golden tone. The watch is fitted with a Chamkilight goatskin strap, a material also used by the maison in its leather goods collections.
The steel models continue Hermès’s recognizable color palette. Two versions feature sunburst dials in étoupe and ardoise, combined with matching calfskin straps. Étoupe is a muted shade that blends brown, gray, and beige, while ardoise resembles a dark slate gray.
Two additional steel references are fitted with argenté sunburst dials and Gris perle Athena calfskin straps. One case is decorated with 46 diamonds, while the other retains a clean, polished finish. The straps are produced in Hermès’s dedicated workshop in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland.
All seven models are available with either a single-tour or double-tour strap. The latter has become closely associated with the brand since its introduction in 1998 by Belgian designer Martin Margiela, who served as Hermès’s artistic director at the time. According to a well-known story, the double-tour concept emerged just before a fashion show, when Margiela decided to wrap the strap twice around the wrist for the runway. The look quickly attracted attention, and orders followed soon after.
With the introduction of the mini models, Hermès continues to refine a design that has remained part of the brand’s watchmaking identity for more than three decades. For now, the new Cape Cod mini watches are powered by quartz movements, leaving open the possibility that a mechanical version might appear in the future. 12.03.2026
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