Manufacturer: Cartier Year: 2023 Reference No: WGCH0087 Case No: 4'127 and 39'901'6DY Model Name: Crash Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal 8971 MC, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Cartier deployant buckle Dimensions: 42mm length x 21mm width Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed. Accessories: Accompanied by Cartier guarantee, loupe, tool, product literature, fitted box, and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Often regarded as the “King of Shapes,” Cartier has released many of the most recognizable watch designs amongst all brands, resonating with its rich heritage and iconic design legacy. Arguably the most iconic shape of them all, the Crash, holds significant importance in the pantheon of Cartier wristwatches. Its unconventional design challenges traditional notions of watch aesthetics and showcases Cartier's innovative approach to wristwatch design.
Despite its initial release over half a century ago, the Cartier Crash remains to this day a highly coveted and sought-after watch among collectors and enthusiasts alike. In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend towards appreciation for shaped watches, and the Cartier Crash has been at the forefront of this movement.
Most certainly the result of a special commission request, the present watch was purchased in December 2023 and remains in brand new, unworn condition. What is especially striking about this watch is the beautifully chosen green roman numerals as well as the yellow gold hands that match the curvaceous case. The olive green sapphire cabochon adds another element of delightful cohesion. While green is perhaps not the most obvious choice when it comes to a brand like Cartier, the end result is stunning.
While Cartier has introduced a number of variations of the Crash model in the past featuring different case sizes, the present watch takes the coveted, larger size of the “London Bond Street” Crash, which has a larger presence on the wrist. Complete with all of its accompanying accessories, the present lot is certain to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, solidifiying its status as a timeless and iconic timepiece.
With 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.
Ref. WGCH0087 A possibly unique, striking, and virtually unworn asymmetric yellow gold wristwatch with special order green numerals, guarantee, and presentation box
2023 42mm length x 21mm width Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed.
