A fine and rare Movado Ermeto Swiss Art Deco Silver & Exotique Croco Leather Desk Clock from early 20th century
Sliding black Exotique Crocodile leather case
Noble Silver inner case
Keyless spring driven movement
Measures 72mm long when open
In very good condition for its age
Rare, Collector
A fine gift
The Movado Ermeto was patented in 1926, at a time when wristwatches were still gaining widespread acceptance. Movado, already known for its technical innovation, envisioned something entirely different: a pocket watch without a traditional crown, designed to be wound automatically through its own use.
The name “Ermeto” is derived from the Greek word hermetic, meaning sealed. This reflects one of its defining features—a protective sliding case that shields the dial from dust, moisture, and shocks.
A Revolutionary Mechanism
What makes the Ermeto truly unique is its ingenious winding system. Instead of a crown, the watch is powered by a sliding case mechanism:
Opening the case winds the mainspring
Closing it continues the winding process
Repeated motion keeps the watch running
This system was not only practical but also ahead of its time, anticipating later developments in automatic watchmaking.
The Ermeto quickly became a symbol of elegance during the Art Deco period. Its rectangular form, often adorned with fine materials such as gold, enamel, or leather coverings, made it both a timekeeping instrument and a fashion accessory.
Its versatility allowed it to adapt seamlessly to different lifestyles, from the refined world of high society to the practical needs of daily life.
A Watch of Its Time—and Ahead of It
The 1920s and 1930s were defined by innovation, modernity, and bold design. The Movado Ermeto fits perfectly within this context, embodying the Art Deco movement’s emphasis on geometry, efficiency, and beauty.
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