Manufacturer: Cartier Year: Circa 1992 Case No: A110’293 Model Name: Crash Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 160, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K white gold Cartier deployant clasp Dimensions: 23mm width x 38mm length Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
Catalogue Essay
Unveiled in 1967, the audacious Cartier Crash remains one of the maison's most brilliant and mysterious creations. Its radical warped case subverted traditional forms, channeling the kinetic energy of the era.
This extremely rare 1990s iteration in platinum showcases the Crash at its most precious. With scarcely a handful produced in platinum and only around 10 examples appearing at auction so far, it seldom surfaces due to fervent collector admiration. The warm off-white dial has aged beautifully and developed its own character with patina throughout. The black Roman numerals provide an alluring contrast to the blued hands and blue cabochon crown, creating a visionary sculptural showcase that encapsulates daring 1960s spirit.
As Cartier's most celebrated watch, the Crash encapsulates avant-garde innovation and irresistible retro allure. For the discerning collector, this elegant platinum example represents a truly rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished timepiece that brilliantly celebrates creative freedom and enduring style.
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.