Small is big when it comes to women's watches this season: think the Mini La D by Dior, the new reduced dimensions of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez-Vous watches and the mignon dials of the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection.
And that's because women have once again come around to the idea that small is the most feminine way to wear a watch. No more big, shouty chronographs the size of saucers. A petite timekeeper is the chic way to keep track of the hours.
Nowhere is this more true than in France, whose women the world looks to for style inspiration. And to absolutely confirm that mini watches are in vogue, Hermès has just launched a collection of itsy bitsy little watches.
The new Faubourg watches are so petite - with a diameter of just 15.5mm, the smallest size in the history of the French luxury house - they are like a ladybird on the wrist. The collection was launched at Paris Haute Couture Week, and those who put their reading glasses on to have a closer look tell me that the allure of the Faubourg watch is its discretion and refinement.
Named after the location of Hermès' flagship store at 24 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and available in rose, white or yellow gold, with the additional option of a diamond-set rim, the design is a succinct tribute to understated luxury, an area in which Hermès excels.
Look closely and you will see that the white lacquered dials are set with a diamond at 12 o'clock. Depending on the model, this super-slim watch comes with a gold bracelet, leather or satin strap. Of course, the leathers used are the famous Hermès variants such as Barenia or Box calf, and all models have quartz movements.
