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South China Morning Post
South China Morning Post
National
Jacqueline Tsang

How Hermès went from custom-made horse harnesses to boats and planes

Hermès has a popular furniture and home accessories collection. Photo: Lucien Lung  

HERMÈS began custom-making horse harnesses in 1837. Its bespoke services have since branched out beyond equestrian accessories into a world of objects that range from small accessories such as bags and suitcases, to medium-sized items such as furniture pieces, and large projects such as the interiors of cars, boats and planes.

A finished motorbike in the Hermès showroom. Photo: Lucien Lung  

Creating a bespoke piece for a client can involve hand-drawing, 3D modelling and crafting working models of the final design. 

Hermès’ museum – the maison’s best-kept secret

Hermès collaborates with automobile brands on bespoke cars for clients. Photo: Lucien Lung 

The variety of projects means that the brand employs craftsmen who are able to work with materials from silk and leather to wood, cashmere and metal. 

Hermès has more than 180 years of experience in customisation

Every detail matters for bespoke projects, from the finish of a car frame to the material used for the interior. Photo: Lucien Lung  

A bespoke Hermès car. Photo: Lucien Lung  

The house also collaborates with automobile brands, boat builders, airframe manufacturers and aeronautic finishing centres to create its more challenging large-scale pieces for land, sea and air. 

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