The story behind this Hermès Kelly
Hermès regularly transforms everyday objects into timepieces. In the 1930s, Robert Dumas designed a bag with clean lines, which was named after Grace Kelly in 1956. This bag is secured by a distinctive padlock. In 1975, Hermès incorporated a watch movement into the centre of this padlock to create the Kelly watch. It is no longer a traditional watch that is fastened to the wrist, but a padlock that locks a leather strap. The KE1.201 model embodies this vision of ladies’ watchmaking. This set illustrates the fusion of fine leather goods and watchmaking with understated elegance.
Case, calibre and strap of this Kelly
This set comprises two cases made of steel and yellow gold-plated brass, each measuring 20 mm on each side. The first dial features a smooth, deep midnight blue finish, whilst the second has a gold-coloured surface adorned with fine vertical striations. The display remains minimalist, with four raised gold studs and baton hands. The quartz movement concealed within ensures consistent accuracy and allows the winding crown to be positioned at 6 o’clock. The distinctive feature of this set lies in its selection of 12 interchangeable straps. The spool system allows the clasps to be slid onto and locked onto a wide variety of leathers, ranging from smooth calfskin to lizard and alligator. The colours range from black and burgundy to shades of orange and yellow.
Why this Hermès watch
Purchasing this set presents an opportunity on the second-hand market. Finding a single Kelly model is common, but coming across a complete set comprising 12 original straps, several of which are made from exotic leathers, is a rare find. It is most likely a special commission or a display piece intended to showcase the House’s saddlery expertise. This arrangement offers versatility, allowing the watch to be easily adapted to any outfit. It is an object that illustrates the intersection between watchmaking and the art of living.
Contents and condition
This set is presented in a display case reminiscent of a travel trunk, with a beige herringbone-patterned fabric interior arranged over two tiers. It contains the two padlock watches and the 12 leather straps. The set has been worn and shows signs of wear inherent to regular use. The leather displays a natural patina and signs of wear at the points of flexion. The gold-plated metal surfaces have visible micro-scratches. Polishing can be carried out at the customer’s request to restore the metal’s lustre.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this item. This set comes with a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been previously worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, wear marks, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
