Michel Herbelin Equinoxe Quartz Mother-of-Pearl 34mm Stainless Steel Mesh Watch (18397/29B)
- Sale price
- R 8,200
- List price
- R 10,950
The Michel Herbelin Equinoxe 18397/29B is a refined expression of contemporary Swiss watchmaking, combining technical precision with elegant restraint. Housed in a polished 34 mm stainless steel case measuring just 6 mm in thickness, this quartz timepiece presents a mother-of-pearl dial adorned with applied Arabic numerals and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock, alongside a discreet date aperture at 3 o'clock. The slender profile and lustrous Milanese mesh bracelet make this watch an ideal companion for both professional and social occasions, offering understated sophistication without unnecessary embellishment.
At Cassim & Co., we are proud to be an authorised retailer for MICHEL HERBELIN watches, ensuring that every timepiece we offer is accompanied by full manufacturer support and authenticity guarantees. The Equinoxe collection exemplifies Michel Herbelin's philosophy of accessible luxury—Swiss-made quartz movements deliver accuracy within seconds per month, while sapphire crystal glass provides superior scratch resistance compared to mineral alternatives. The mother-of-pearl dial exhibits natural iridescence that shifts subtly with the light, ensuring no two viewing angles are identical.
Water resistance to 50 metres (5 ATM) makes this watch suitable for daily wear including hand washing and light rain exposure, though it should not be worn while swimming or showering. The integrated Milanese mesh bracelet features a secure fold-over clasp and can be adjusted for wrist sizes between approximately 140 mm and 190 mm without requiring additional links. This seamless integration of bracelet and case creates a visual continuity that enhances the watch's slender aesthetic, while the polished stainless steel finish ensures compatibility with both warm and cool metal jewellery.
Visit us at our Mall of the South boutique to experience the Equinoxe 18397/29B firsthand, where our specialists can demonstrate the quality of the movement finishing and discuss sizing options. Our watch servicing and repairs team provides comprehensive after-sales support including battery replacements, bracelet adjustments, and warranty administration for all Michel Herbelin timepieces purchased through our boutique. Nationwide delivery is available across South Africa for clients unable to visit our Johannesburg location.
Specifications
- Reference Number: 18397/29B (18397AP29B)
- Brand: Michel Herbelin
- Collection: Equinoxe
- Movement: Swiss Quartz
- Display: Analogue with small seconds
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Case Diameter: 34 mm
- Case Thickness: 6 mm
- Case Finish: Polished
- Crystal: Sapphire (scratch-resistant)
- Dial Colour: Mother-of-Pearl
- Dial Features: Applied Arabic numerals, small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock, date aperture at 3 o'clock
- Hands: Dauphine style with polished finish
- Bracelet Type: Milanese mesh (stainless steel)
- Clasp Type: Fold-over clasp
- Water Resistance: 50 metres (5 ATM)
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date
- Gender: Ladies / Unisex
- Warranty: 2-year international Michel Herbelin warranty
- Country of Origin: Switzerland
FAQ
Q: Is the Michel Herbelin Equinoxe 18397/29B suitable for everyday wear?
A: Yes, this watch is designed for daily wear. The 50-metre water resistance makes it suitable for hand washing and light rain, while the sapphire crystal provides excellent scratch resistance. However, it should not be worn while swimming, showering, or engaging in water sports.
Q: How often does the quartz movement require battery replacement?
A: Swiss quartz movements typically require battery replacement every 2-3 years depending on usage patterns. Our watch servicing team at Cassim & Co. can perform this service quickly and professionally, ensuring your timepiece remains sealed and water-resistant.
Q: Can the Milanese mesh bracelet be adjusted to fit different wrist sizes?
A: Yes, the integrated Milanese mesh bracelet accommodates wrist sizes between approximately 140 mm and 190 mm. The bracelet can be professionally sized at our Mall of the South boutique to ensure a perfect fit. Unlike traditional link bracelets, mesh bracelets offer micro-adjustability for optimal comfort.
Q: Is the mother-of-pearl dial genuine, and how should it be cared for?
A: Yes, the dial features genuine mother-of-pearl with natural iridescence. This material is durable but should be protected from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and extreme temperature changes. Clean the watch with a soft, slightly damp cloth and avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
Q: What is the accuracy of the Swiss quartz movement?
A: Swiss quartz movements are renowned for their precision, typically accurate to within ±15 seconds per month under normal conditions. This is significantly more accurate than mechanical movements, making quartz an excellent choice for those who prioritise timekeeping precision.
Q: Does this watch come with an international warranty?
A: Yes, the Michel Herbelin Equinoxe 18397/29B comes with a 2-year international warranty from the date of purchase when bought from an authorised retailer like Cassim & Co. The warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
Q: Is the 34 mm case size appropriate for smaller wrists?
A: Absolutely. The 34 mm diameter and 6 mm thickness make this watch ideal for slender wrists, typically between 140 mm and 170 mm circumference. The slim profile sits comfortably under shirt cuffs, making it an excellent choice for professional settings.
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.
- Valid Purchase: The warranty is only valid when the watch is purchased from an authorised Michel Herbelin retailer such as Cassim & Co.
- What Is Covered: Defects in the movement, case, dial, hands, crystal, and bracelet that arise from manufacturing faults during the warranty period.
- What Is Not Covered: Normal wear and tear including scratches, dents, or discolouration of the case, bracelet, or crystal; battery replacement; damage caused by accidents, misuse, or unauthorised repairs; water damage resulting from improper use or failure to maintain water resistance; damage from exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, or magnetic fields.
- Water Resistance: Water resistance is not covered under warranty as gaskets deteriorate naturally over time. We recommend annual water resistance testing.
- Warranty Activation: Retain your original purchase receipt or invoice as proof of purchase date and authorised retailer status. This must be presented for any warranty claims.
- Service Requirements: All warranty repairs must be performed by authorised Michel Herbelin service centres. Unauthorised repairs or modifications void the warranty immediately.
- After-Sales Support: Cassim & Co. provides comprehensive after-sales support including battery replacement, bracelet adjustment, and warranty claim facilitation for all watches purchased through our boutique.
Care Guide
- Daily Wear: Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, strong magnetic fields, and harsh chemicals including perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning agents which may damage the case finish or gaskets.
- Water Resistance: Rated to 50 metres (5 ATM), suitable for hand washing and light rain only. Do not operate the crown or pushers when wet. Not suitable for swimming, showering, or water sports. Have water resistance tested annually.
- Cleaning: Wipe the case, crystal, and bracelet regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, then dry thoroughly. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may damage the movement.
- Bracelet Maintenance: Milanese mesh bracelets can accumulate skin oils and debris between the links. Clean periodically with a soft brush and mild soapy water, ensuring the watch is thoroughly dried afterwards.
- Crystal Care: The sapphire crystal is highly scratch-resistant but not shatterproof. Avoid impacts against hard surfaces such as concrete, stone, or ceramic.
- Storage: When not wearing your watch, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep away from strong magnets (speakers, magnetic clasps) which can affect timekeeping accuracy.
- Battery Replacement: Have the battery replaced by a qualified watchmaker every 2-3 years or when timekeeping becomes erratic. Battery replacement at Cassim & Co. includes gasket inspection and water resistance testing.
- Servicing: Quartz watches require less frequent servicing than mechanical watches, but we recommend a professional inspection every 4-5 years to ensure gasket integrity and movement lubrication.
- Crown Usage: When adjusting the time or date, pull the crown out gently and avoid forcing. Always ensure the crown is pushed fully in after adjustment to maintain water resistance.
- Mother-of-Pearl Care: Protect the dial from harsh chemicals and extreme temperature fluctuations. The natural material may develop character over time, which is considered part of its unique appeal.