Hermès, known for its long-standing collaboration with Apple Watch, has recently taken down all references to the wearable and compatible bands from its website. This move prompts speculation about the future of the luxury fashion house’s partnership with Apple.
In late August, rumors started swirling about Apple’s intention to replace its leather cases with a fresh woven-style material for the upcoming iPhone 15 lineup. This notion gained further traction a week later when reports surfaced that the new iPhone 15 cases would bear the moniker “FineWoven,” effectively superseding the premium leather cases.
A mere six days after the news of Apple’s potential shift away from leather watch bands, Hermès made the decisive move of erasing all traces of Apple Watch-related products from its website. The “Apple Watch Hermès” section, once nestled under “Jewelry and Watches,” has now vanished.
While Hermès has predominantly specialized in providing opulent leather bands for Apple Watch, they did offer the “Casaque Single Tour” band crafted from woven nylon. The shift away from leather might have presented a hurdle for Hermès, potentially influencing this decision.
Conversely, it’s plausible that Hermès has excised Apple Watch content from its website in anticipation of a revamped selection of luxury bands and new Apple Watch Hermès models devoid of leather. This aligns with Hermès’ actions last year when they prepared for the launch of the Series 8 and Ultra, introducing new Apple Watch Hermès models.
According to insights from Mark Gurman, Apple’s departure from leather isn’t expected to impact its partnership with Hermès. Whether Hermès will continue to offer Apple Watch bands in the face of Apple’s leather shift remains uncertain. For now, Hermès still lists products like AirTag, AirPods, and iPhone 12 cases on its website, keeping the intrigue alive.
