63
Cartier
Crash "Platinum"
An extremely rare, attractive, and unusual platinum asymmetric wristwatch
Full-Cataloguing
• Produced in extremely limited numbers in platinum, with only a handful of examples known and very few appearances at auction
• The dial has a developed a gorgeous, even patina
Unveiled in 1967, the Cartier Crash stands among the most daring and enigmatic creations in the maison’s history. Its dramatically distorted case challenged conventional watch design, capturing the creative spirit and cultural energy of late 1960s London.
The present example, dating to the early 1990s and executed in platinum, represents one of the most exclusive interpretations of this iconic model. Produced in exceedingly limited numbers, with only a small handful of platinum examples known and very few appearances at auction, such pieces are avidly sought after by collectors and seldom offered publicly.
The dial has developed a charming warm, off-white tone over time, complemented by a gentle and even patina that enhances its character. The elongated black Roman numerals contrast elegantly against the surface, while the blued steel hands and matching blue cabochon crown introduce a refined chromatic balance.
In today’s market, it has become increasingly challenging to source vintage Cartier timepieces preserved in honest and original condition. Many examples have been subject to polishing, restoration, or component replacement over the decades, often compromising their integrity and diminishing their appeal to the discerning collector. As such, pieces that retain their original proportions, surfaces, and dial character, as seen in the present watch, are becoming ever more elusive and highly prized.
An enduring symbol of Cartier’s creative audacity, the Crash remains one of the most recognizable and celebrated designs in horology. This rare platinum iteration offers a compelling opportunity to acquire a highly collectible example that embodies both artistic innovation and timeless appeal.
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.