Apple and Hermès once again join forces to create an eco-friendly collection of watch bands for the Apple Watch Series 9. This exciting revelation was made at Apple’s ‘Wonderlust‘ event, marking a significant step towards sustainability as Apple has declared to cease the usage of leather in all its new products, including watch bands.
The newly introduced bands include the Bridon model, a hand-braided knitted band with a chevron pattern, and the Kilim model, a waterproof, molded rubber band with a deployment buckle. Moreover, two new woven bands have also been introduced: the Toile H model, an interpretation of the iconic Hermès checked canvas, and the Twill Jump model, a solid shade band with contrasting details, like the Hermès traditional bright orange with khaki edging. Apple expressed in a statement that the new collection of Hermès bands “draws on the house’s rich history in textiles and craftsmanship.”
Along with the new band styles, a new watch face, Hermès Radial, was launched, specifically designed to complement the new bands. Hermès stated that the collaboration with Apple represents “the meeting of two cultures united by common values: the quest for excellence and authenticity,” emphasizing that it is crafted for customers who value design, technology, materials, and craftsmanship.
In addition to collaborating with Hermès, Apple also partnered with Nike to develop lower-impact bands. The Sport Band model, composed of 32 percent or more recycled synthetic rubber, includes colorful flakes made from band excess, giving each band a unique design, while the Sport Loop model is made of 82 percent recycled yarn and is carbon-neutral.
Besides the design features, the Apple Watch Series 9 also includes spec improvements, such as the ability to handle Siri requests and a double-tap feature that enables the wearer to use the index finger and thumb to answer a call.
The collaboration between Apple and Hermès dates back to 2015 when they launched three classic leather designs available in five colors, all housed in the signature Hermès orange boxes. Although Apple has decided to stop using leather, Hermès will continue to offer its own leather designs compatible with Apple watches.
This recent announcement quelled the rumors that circulated among Apple enthusiasts earlier this week, suggesting that the two brands had parted ways after Hermès removed all Apple Watch-related products from its website before the conference at Apple’s headquarters in California.
The new Hermès bands will be available in stores starting September 22nd.
The renewed partnership between Apple and Hermès for the Apple Watch Series 9 not only signifies a commitment to sustainability but also highlights the mutual values of excellence and authenticity shared by both brands.
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