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Cartier
Cloche
A rare and attractive yellow gold cloche-shaped wristwatch, number 19 of a limited edition of 200 pieces
Full-Cataloguing
- Time only
- Numbered 19 of a limited edition of 200 pieces
- Iconic model inspired by the 1920s
- Preserved in overall excellent condition
Originally produced in the 1920s, the "Cloche" was a completely novel design for the period. Asymmetrical and designed with a curved side, it most resembled a service bell, made to be rung at a counter. It joins mythic models such as the Cintrée, Crash, Baignoire Allongée, all of which are cornerstones of Cartier's brilliant history. Exuding an exotic charm, the Roman numerals on the dial are adjusted 90° clockwise from their habitual stance, with the 12 o’clock index sitting where 3 o’clock usually does, next to the crown.
Between 1921 and 1970, Cartier produced several versions of the Cloche, though it remained a relatively low-volume model. In 1984, the design was revived as part of the Louis Cartier collection, this time featuring a quartz movement. The Cloche de Cartier returned again in 1995 in a limited edition of 200 pieces (the presen model) which was crafted in yellow gold, distinguished by Arabic numerals, pomme hands, and a mechanical movement.
The present watch is part of a series made in the 1990s of 200 pieces, of which this is number 19. It is preserved in excellent condition with crisp hallmarks and engravings.
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.