Now available at auction from Second Vintage A masterful intersection of high fashion and horology, the Hermès Medor is an iconic statement piece that transcends traditional watch design. Inspired by the house’s legendary "collier de chien" (dog collar) belts and accessories, this secret watch features a bold, studded aesthetic that cleverly conceals its timekeeping function. The hinged pyramid cover springs open to reveal an elegant, minimalist dial, offering a moment of intimate interaction for the wearer. This timepiece exemplifies the visionary design language of Hermès, presenting a bold architectural presence on the wrist while maintaining the refined craftsmanship expected from the legendary Parisian marque. Brand: Hermès Model: Medor Reference Number: ME1.201 Serial Number: 745350 Movement: Swiss Quartz Caliber 976.001 Dial: Pristine white dial with applied gold-tone pyramid indices and crisp black serif typography Case Size: 23 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-plated stainless steel Production Year: 1990 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest exterior wear and an immaculate hidden dial Dial and Hands Safely concealed beneath its protective cover, the dial of this Medor remains in stunning, near-mint condition. The surface is a stark, clean white, entirely free of spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration. Time is indicated by elegant, unlumed gold-tone leaf hands that sweep across the minimalist layout. At the quarter hours, applied miniature gold-tone pyramid indices mirror the bold exterior design, catching the light beautifully against the matte white background. The typography is executed in a crisp, black serif font reading "HERMÈS PARIS" just below the twelve o'clock position, with "SWISS MADE" cleanly printed at the bottom edge. Case and Crystal The 23mm gold-plated case is defined by its dramatic "clous de Paris" inspired pyramid studs. The central hinged pyramid functions as a protective cover for the flat crystal and dial beneath. As a highly polished, prominent surface, the exterior gold-tone pyramid cover exhibits clear, honest signs of vintage wear, including visible surface scratches, scuffs, and micro-abrasions consistent with regular use. The fluted crown is sharply signed with the Hermès "H" logo. The stainless steel caseback is secured by four screws and features a deeply engraved, crisp Hermès crest, along with the reference ME1.201 and serial number 745350, all remaining highly legible. The flat crystal protecting the dial is clean and clear. Movement Powering this secret watch is a reliable Swiss quartz movement, clearly identified in the detailed images as the Caliber 976.001. The movement plate is signed "HERMÈS PARIS" and indicates a six-jewel construction. The movement presents cleanly, with all factory engravings, including the "V8" and "SWISS" hallmarks, sharply defined. The quartz caliber ensures precise and low-maintenance timekeeping, perfectly suited for a fashion-forward dress watch of this caliber. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap adorned with matching gold-tone pyramid studs. The leather exhibits distinct signs of vintage wear, including creasing, surface cracking, and edge wear, reflecting its history and adding a rugged character to the piece. The gold-tone studs on the strap show similar handling marks and surface scratches to the main case. It is completed with a traditional gold-tone pin buckle. Condition This Hermès Medor is presented in good vintage condition. It offers a striking contrast between the heavily utilized exterior and the perfectly preserved interior. The exterior gold-plated surfaces and the leather strap show undeniable, honest wear, with prominent scratches on the polished pyramids. However, the hidden dial and hands have been entirely shielded from the elements and remain in exceptional, flawless condition, ensuring the primary timekeeping display is as beautiful today as it was when it left the boutique. Dimensions 23 mm case width (excluding the crown) Remarks The Medor is a quintessential Hermès creation, blending rebellious aesthetic elements with luxurious execution. The secret watch complication adds an element of mechanical intrigue to an otherwise bold piece of jewelry. It remains a highly sought-after design for collectors of vintage luxury fashion and unique horological accessories. History Introduced in the early 1990s, the Hermès Medor watch drew direct inspiration from the house's iconic Collier de Chien collection, which itself was originally designed in the 1920s to protect hunting dogs. By translating this studded leather motif into a luxurious secret timepiece, Hermès created a bold, avant-garde accessory that quickly became a staple of 1990s high fashion. The Medor perfectly encapsulates the Hermès philosophy of transforming utilitarian equestrian and canine equipment into the highest echelon of Parisian luxury goods. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent). Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age. Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description. If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: HER-HXX-0004