1087
Cartier
A unique and well-preserved agate desk clock with black enamel, onyx, yellow gold, rubies, key and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
- Well-preserved with strong hallmarks and case numbers
- Accompanied with fitted Cartier travel presentation box and key
By 1925, the Roaring Twenties were in full swing, as society eagerly moved beyond the shadows of World War I. The growing accessibility of automobiles, trains, and airplanes ushered in a new era of speed and travel, inspiring a remarkable surge in the creation of elegant travel clocks and watches. Among the most distinguished makers of the period, Cartier introduced timepieces of refined modernist design, capturing the spirit of the age with unparalleled sophistication.
The present lot is an exquisite Cartier travel desk clock featuring a translucent agate case with beautiful natural veining. Executed with the signature artistry of the esteemed Haute Joaillerie maison, the dial displays a finely executed guilloché pattern accented by bold black Roman numerals. The square onyx handle evokes subtle Oriental influences through its perfect symmetry and the case is further adorned with four triangular-cut rubies.
This exceptional 8 days travel desk clock is preserved in outstanding condition for its age with crisp hallmarks clearly visible on the gold elements. Sharp case numbers are stamped on the base of the handle. A celebrated piece from an important private collection, it has not appeared on the international market for nearly 28 years. It is accompanied by its winding key and original fitted travel presentation box stamped with a monogram, making it a rare and complete example of Cartier’s Art Deco horological mastery.
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.