Having already made a name for itself in the world of audio with unique pieces of equipment such as a vertical boombox and a leather wireless speaker, Hermès is now taking things a step further. The Parisian fashion house is now venturing into the portable audio world with the creation of its first hi-fi headphones. Conceived as an exceptional object, this model combines technological innovation and craftsmanship. Priced at €11,800, what does it reveal about Hermès’ vision of luxury?
Craftsmanship at the heart of design
Imagined in the secrecy of the Ateliers Horizons workshop, the division dedicated to the most confidential projects of the famous fashion house, these hi-fi headphones reflect the artisanal excellence that is unique to Hermès. They are made with the same exacting standards as the brand’s iconic bags: hand-stitched leather, minimalist and meticulous aluminum finishes. They respect the aesthetic values that are familiar to connoisseurs of the brand: discreet, lasting elegance.
The project was led by Axel de Beaufort, artistic director of Ateliers Horizons. The development of the headphones took over two years, not only to design the object, but also to create a unique sound identity. It wasn’t just a question of designing a new audio accessory, but of defining the “Hermès sound”, in the words of the brand. This sound is intended to be enveloping and rich, reflecting the luxurious materials and clean lines favoured by Hermès.
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Limited edition Bluetooth headphones
The Hermès hi-fi headphones use cowhide and lambskin and are available in five elegant colors: natural brown, black, Hermès red, intense chocolate and deep blue. They combine listening comfort with refined finishes. Each pair is discreetly numbered, underlining its exclusive character. Hermès remains true to its philosophy of creating objects that stand the test of time rather than following trends.
Priced at 11,800 euros, these headphones are aimed at collectors, discerning music lovers and Hermès enthusiasts. Far from being a simple accessory, this limited edition is a manifesto of understated and perfectly mastered technical luxury.
Technical specifications
- 40mm transducers
- Bluetooth receiver
- 30-hour autonomy
- ANC
- Volume: 110 dB
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 40kHz
- Impedance: 32 Ω
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 180 x 200 x 90mm
- Weight: 415g
With its first headphones, Hermès is not trying to compete with mainstream technology brands. True, these hi-fi headphones adopt technologies found on much less expensive models, such as a Bluetooth receiver and active noise cancelling, but the brand’s goal is to assert a radical and coherent vision of luxury, where each object is a statement.
