Michel Herbelin Epsilon Quartz White Dial Gold PVD Leather Watch 34mm (12443/P01)
- Price
- R 9,950
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The Michel Herbelin Epsilon 12443/P01 is a refined expression of French watchmaking elegance, combining classic design codes with the precision of Swiss quartz engineering. Housed in a slender 34mm case crafted from 316L stainless steel and finished in warm gold PVD coating, this timepiece exudes understated sophistication. The crisp white dial, adorned with black Roman numeral hour markers and a discreet date window at 6 o'clock, delivers exceptional legibility while maintaining its timeless aesthetic. At approximately 7mm thick, the Epsilon collection is celebrated for its extra-slim profile, allowing it to slip effortlessly beneath a shirt cuff — a hallmark of true dress watch design.
The contrasting black leather strap, finished with visible stitching, adds a tactile dimension to the watch's refined character. This pairing of gold-tone case and black leather creates a versatile combination suitable for both formal occasions and everyday professional wear. The Swiss quartz movement ensures reliable timekeeping without the maintenance requirements of mechanical calibres, making this an ideal choice for those who value precision and convenience alongside classic styling. With 30 metres of water resistance, the watch can withstand splashes and brief immersion, though it is not intended for swimming or water sports.
At Cassims & Co., we are proud to be an authorised retailer for MICHEL HERBELIN watches, ensuring that every timepiece we offer is backed by genuine warranty coverage and full manufacturer support. The Epsilon collection represents Michel Herbelin's commitment to accessible luxury — watches that honour traditional aesthetics without compromising on quality or technical integrity. Whether you're building a watch collection or seeking a dependable dress watch for daily wear, the 12443/P01 offers a compelling blend of French design sensibility and Swiss movement reliability.
We invite you to experience this timepiece in person at our Mall of the South boutique in Johannesburg, where our knowledgeable team can guide you through the Epsilon collection and assist with sizing and styling advice. For customers across South Africa, we offer secure nationwide delivery, bringing authorised Michel Herbelin timepieces directly to your door. Should you require battery replacement or strap adjustment in the future, our watch servicing and repairs team is always on hand to maintain your watch in optimal condition throughout its lifetime.
Specifications
- Brand: Michel Herbelin
- Model: Epsilon
- Reference: 12443/P01
- Movement: Swiss quartz
- Functions: Hours, minutes, date display at 6 o'clock
- Case Material: 316L stainless steel with gold PVD coating
- Case Diameter: 34.0mm
- Case Thickness: Approximately 7.0mm
- Dial Colour: White
- Dial Markers: Black Roman numerals
- Hands: Black leaf-style hands
- Crystal: Mineral glass
- Case Back: Stainless steel
- Water Resistance: 30 metres (3 ATM) — splash resistant
- Strap Material: Black leather with contrast stitching
- Buckle: Gold PVD-coated stainless steel tang buckle
- Gender: Unisex / suitable for smaller wrists
- GTIN/Barcode: 3661132010625
- Country of Origin: France (movement: Switzerland)
FAQ
Q: Is the 34mm case size suitable for men?
A: The 34mm case diameter places this watch in the vintage-inspired dress watch category, which is experiencing a renaissance among collectors who appreciate classical proportions. While historically standard for men's watches, 34mm is now considered versatile — ideal for those with smaller wrists or anyone seeking a refined, unobtrusive timepiece. The slim 7mm profile further enhances its elegance and wearability under formal attire.
Q: What is the difference between Swiss quartz and standard quartz movements?
A: Swiss quartz movements are manufactured in Switzerland to higher tolerances and quality standards than generic quartz calibres. They typically offer superior accuracy (often within ±15 seconds per month), longer battery life, and better shock resistance. Michel Herbelin's use of Swiss quartz ensures reliable performance backed by decades of horological expertise.
Q: Can I wear this watch while washing my hands or in light rain?
A: Yes, the 30-metre water resistance rating means the watch can withstand splashes, hand washing, and light rain without issue. However, it is not suitable for swimming, showering, or any water sports. We recommend avoiding operating the crown while the watch is wet, and having the seals checked during battery replacement to maintain water resistance.
Q: How often will the battery need replacement?
A: Swiss quartz movements typically provide 2-4 years of battery life, depending on usage patterns and the specific calibre. When replacement is needed, we recommend having this performed by our authorised service team to ensure water resistance is maintained and genuine components are used.
Q: Is the gold colour plated or solid gold?
A: The case features gold PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating over 316L stainless steel. PVD is a highly durable finishing process that bonds gold-tone material at the molecular level, offering excellent resistance to wear, scratches, and fading compared to traditional plating. It is not solid gold, which allows the watch to remain accessible while delivering long-lasting aesthetic appeal.
Q: What is the Michel Herbelin brand heritage?
A: Michel Herbelin is a family-owned French watch manufacture established in 1947, based in Charquemont near the Swiss border. The brand is renowned for elegant, classically-styled timepieces that combine French design sensibility with Swiss movement technology. Epsilon is one of their signature collections, celebrated for extra-slim cases and timeless styling.
Q: Can the leather strap be replaced if it wears out?
A: Absolutely. The watch uses standard 18mm spring bars, making strap replacement straightforward. We stock a range of compatible leather and fabric straps at our boutique, and our team can fit a replacement for you. Alternatively, any quality watch strap in 18mm width will be compatible with this model.
Warranty
- Warranty Period: This Michel Herbelin watch is covered by a 2-year international manufacturer warranty from the date of purchase.
- Warranty Coverage: The warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. This includes movement malfunctions, case or crystal defects, and manufacturing faults in the strap or buckle.
- What Is Not Covered: The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, battery replacement, leather strap deterioration, scratches or cosmetic damage to the case or crystal, water damage resulting from misuse or failure to observe water resistance limits, damage from accidents or impacts, unauthorised modifications or repairs, or damage from magnetic fields or extreme conditions.
- Validity Requirements: The warranty is valid only when the watch is purchased from an authorised Michel Herbelin retailer such as Cassims & Co. Proof of purchase must be retained and presented for any warranty claims.
- Claiming Warranty Service: Should you experience a manufacturing defect during the warranty period, bring your watch along with the original purchase receipt to Cassims & Co. We will assess the issue and facilitate warranty service through official Michel Herbelin channels.
- Important Note: This is a manufacturer warranty provided by Michel Herbelin, not a Cassims & Co. warranty. As an authorised retailer, we support and facilitate all warranty claims on your behalf.
Care Guide
- Daily Wear: Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures, strong magnetic fields, or impacts that could affect the quartz movement or damage the case.
- Water Exposure: While splash-resistant to 30 metres, do not submerge the watch in water, operate the crown when wet, or expose it to hot water or steam, which can compromise seals.
- Leather Strap Care: Leather is a natural material that will develop character with wear. Avoid prolonged water contact, perfumes, and cosmetics. Clean gently with a damp cloth and allow to air dry naturally. Condition periodically with leather care products to maintain suppleness.
- Crystal Cleaning: Wipe the mineral crystal with a soft, lint-free microfibre cloth. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or rough materials that could scratch the crystal.
- PVD Coating Maintenance: The gold PVD finish is highly durable but should still be treated with care. Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, abrasive surfaces, or jewellery that could cause scratching. Clean with a soft cloth only.
- Battery Replacement: When the watch stops or the seconds hand begins jumping in multiple-second intervals, bring it to an authorised service centre for battery replacement. This ensures proper handling, genuine parts, and water resistance testing.
- Storage: When not wearing your watch, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A watch box or pouch will protect it from dust and accidental impacts.
- Service Intervals: Quartz watches require minimal servicing, but we recommend a movement check and seal inspection every 3-4 years, typically performed during battery replacement, to ensure long-term reliability.