Movado Chronometer "Ermeto" travel clock

A classy Movado Chronometer "Ermeto" travel clock in exceptional original condition. Whilst it may not be the sort of thing we normally buy, when we saw this we couldn't resist! There is something truly alluring about this little travel clock and its no surprise there is an ever growing community collecting these pieces!

The Ermeto was launched by Movado in 1926 as a stylish and robust travelling watch. Its innovative sliding case was originally designed by the case manufacturer Huguenin Frères & Cie. They apparently offered the design to several manufacturers, but none were interested; that was until they came to Movado, who already known for their interest in innovative designs, had the foresight to take it on. 

The name ‘Ermeto’ comes from the Greek translation for the word meaning ‘sealed’. In versions after 1927 the case not only created a protective seal but also wound the watch as the case was opened and closed. 

With the Ermeto, Movado also took an innovative approach to marketing it, positioning it as both a fashion accessory and an alternative form for telling the time. With outer cases coming in numerous designs and materials, the Ermeto offered the ultimate travel accessory. If this wasn’t enough to cement its place in horological history, the Movado Ermeto is also credited as being the first watch marketed as unisex. 

So popular was the Ermeto that its production continued until the 1970’s with Andy Warhol famously owning six different models in his lifetime. Today, interest in these important pieces of horological history is growing, and we believe this is just the start. In fact as I write this description the Movado above is sitting on my desk, as it has been all day, faithfully keeping time. If it hadn’t been purchased by the company, this one would never see the site and would remain on my desk until I’m six feet under! 

We get to handle some incredibly beautiful and collectable watches (even if we’ve been too busy to post the majority of the really special pieces!) but none have tugged at my heart strings in the way this has. It really is a wonderful piece with bags of soul and is sure to bring a smile to your face!