The “Ermeto”
Movado was originally founded by Achille Ditesheim in 1881, in the Swiss town of La Chaux-de-Fonds. Having gone through several metamorphoses over the years, it continues to endure to this day. Part of the self-proclaimed “third age of the watch”, the Movado Ermeto clock was introduced in 1926, and won the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition. The Ermeto clock in all its iterations was also owned by several historical figures, including the likes of Andy Warhol, Clara Bow, and Pope Pius XI.
The name “Ermeto” itself is derived from the Greek word ερμητικός (ermētikós), from which the word “hermetic” comes from. The piece comes in four sizes, “Baby”, “Normal”, “Master” and “Pullman”, of which this “Pullman” example is the largest size.
The Design
The clock face is protected by a textured lizard leather case which serves as both a protective measure in addition to giving a pleasant contrast to the light-coloured dial. The case has two sliding covers, which open in a very satisfying way when they are pulled apart, which in turn winds the mechanism. The latter has an eight-day power reserve, which is indicated by the “8 DAYS” found on the dial.
When the dial is revealed, we can see that the cream face has developed a slight patina, further adding to its vintage appeal. The piece also features a combination of applied index markers and numerals. The dauphine-style hour and minute hands are a similar style to the indexes, and are filled with luminous material, with luminous dots scattered around the outer minute track of the dial. A smaller inner ring with printed hours and fifteen-minute increments is also present, as well as a small “MOVADO” signature near the top of the ring.
A handy aspect of this special clock is that it also features an alarm function, which can be set via a push button on the crown. This can set the alarm function by fifteen-minute increments, going backwards.
The design allows the piece to be carried around unobtrusively in a bag, travel case, or pocket. Additionally, a folding stand in stainless steel pops out when the case is opened, allowing it to be placed on a bedside stand or flat surface, making it ideal for travel or as a desk companion.
If sold within the United Kingdom, this Movado Ermeto Pullman travel clock will be subject to 20% VAT.
