The Cartier Crash is one of the most recognised and cherished horological gems on the market today. From its original iteration in 1967 to the 21st century re-issues, the watch embodies the unconventional and swinging decade of the 1960s with an unmistakably unique look, and the genius craftsmanship of the Cartier atelier. Over the years, there has been much speculation about the design, from some believing incorrectly the unusual case was based on Salvador Dali’s “Persistence of Memory” to the rumour it was a Maxi Baignoire Alongée, which melted during a car accident, and returned to Cartier for restoration. The reality is the design was the brainchild of Jean-Jacque Cartier and designer Rupert Emmerson. The original Crash model was released at Cartier London in 1967, and was made from a modified Maxi Baignoire Alongée. Since then the brand has released other versions over the decades from a new London Crash from the 1980s, to a limited edition platinum Paris model in the 1990s, as well as a limited edition run of 400 from Paris in 1991.

The 2014 Cartier Crash re-issue features the DNA of the original model, however the Cartier workshop skeletonised the crash with open bridges featuring Roman numerals that allow a peek into the movement, giving the wristwatch an aesthetic that enlivens it. The blued steel sword hands are easily read on the dial. The sculpted platinum case is expertly designed with a modern dimension of 28mm by 45mm, and the crown is capped with the Cartier hallmark cabochon sapphire. The watch was limited to only 67 examples.

The present example, number 52, is fresh-to-the-market, consigned by the original owner. It is presented in overall outstanding condition and is accompanied by its Cartier guarantee and presentation box.

Cartier is known for countless emblematic pieces, from their famed Flamingo brooch, to their classic Panthère collection, and their legendary line of elegant “Tank” wristwatches, produced since 1917. The famed Crash watch, with its amazing, dream-like curved form, is Cartier’s most radical watch design surrounded by mythical stories on the origins of its fabled, asymmetric shape, and this 21st century example is a wonderful and extremely rare version for the connoisseur.