16Σ︎
Cartier
Ref. WHCH0008
Crash Skeleton "Temple Exclusive"
An extremely rare and attractive off-catalogue platinum asymmetrical skeletonized wristwatch with burgundy lacquer accents, warranty, and presentation box, numbered 50 of a limited edition of 60 pieces
Full-Cataloguing
• Off-catalogue Crash variant available only through London, New York, and Paris
• The first example to appear at public auction
• Numbered 50 out of 60
• Preserved in excellent condition and accompanied by full set of accessories
Few designs are as synonymous with Cartier's daring creativity as the Crash. First conceived in London in 1967, its unconventional, almost surreal silhouette has evolved from one of the Maison's most audacious creations into one of the most coveted forms in contemporary collecting.
The present Crash Skeleton offers an exceptionally rare interpretation of this icon. Part of the so-called “Temple Exclusive” series, only 60 examples were produced and offered exclusively through Cartier's London, Paris, and New York boutiques as an off-catalogue creation. Its sculptural openworked architecture is enlivened by rich burgundy lacquer accents, beautifully complemented by a matching burgundy strap and ruby cabochon. Beneath, Cartier's manually-wound skeletonized movement transforms the Crash's signature Roman numerals into structural elements of the calibre itself—a compelling fusion of design and watchmaking savoir-faire.
Fresh-to-market and the first to ever appear publicly, the present example is numbered 50 of the limited edition of only 60 pieces and preserved in excellent overall condition. It is accompanied by its full complement of original accessories, presenting collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most elusive modern interpretations of Cartier's celebrated Crash.
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.