853Σ︎
Cartier
Ref. CRHPI01088
Crash Squelette No. 1
An uber rare and “like-new” special edition platinum skeletonized asymmetrical wristwatch with diamond and ruby-set bezel, diamond-set crown, certificate and presentation box, numbered 1
Full-Cataloguing
- Numbered 1 of the model
- The only example to appear in the market
- Offered by the original owner
- Unworn and accompanied by full set of accessories
The Cartier Squelette, a truly shaped movement watch under the creative genius of Carole Forestier-Kasapi, Head of Movement Creation (2005-2020) at Cartier. Spearheading the department with nearly 30 new in-house movements such as the Astro-tourbillon, Rontonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire.
The Crash Skeleton features a one-of-a-kind shaped movement for the first time. First debuted as limited edition in platinum of just 67 pieces with a modernly larger dimension enhancing its sculptural presence on the wrist, the collection was quickly followed by a pink gold version, and a diamond-encrusted platinum version in 2016.
Exposed with skeletonized bridges elegantly stretched into Roman numerals that can be read from the front, the reverse offers an impressive display of the engineering of the calibre 9618MC to the fullest. While skeleton watches are common in haute horologerie, asymmetrical ones are particularly rare. This sophisticated design culminates in a vertically aligned gear train that follows the contours of the case.
This Cartier Squelette is particularly notable which marks several first: the inaugural diamonds and rubies-set series of the Crash Squelette, the first to be made as numbered 1 of the series (unknown production number), and the first of its kind to ever appear publicly. Encapsulating a peculiar shape that is both abstract and utterly pleasing, the bezel is adorned with 4 rows of gradual sized diamonds and rubies. The diamond-set cabochon crown subtly nods to its importance and rarity beneath the cuffs.
Preserved in untouched condition, this exceptional piece has spent the last nine years in the safe of a private collection since the day it left the boutique. Remaining "like new" and complete with its numbered certificate, purchase invoice and all of its accessories.
Cartier
FrenchWith the Constitution of 1848 came a new standard for luxury in France. Founded one year prior by Louis-Francois Cartier, the house of Cartier was one of the first to use platinum in jewelry making. This incredibly expensive material became the stepping-stone for Cartier to experiment in form, mechanisms and attitude. It helped men move from pocket watches to wristwatches, effectively making the watch much more functional and prominent in a man's overall wardrobe.
Cartier did not only touch on functionality. Inspired by a commissioned painting by George Barbier featuring a black panther at the feet of an elegantly bejeweled woman, Cartier began incorporating wild animals in his designs—most notably, Cartier Panthère rings, bangle bracelets and watches. Yet it wasn't until the late 1960s that the house of Cartier debuted their iconic yellow and rose gold LOVE collection, which includes the famous bracelet that only a special screwdriver can open.