The Cloche de Cartier is, undeniably, an odd one. If the name does not ring a bell, have a look again. Straight forward enough, the word “cloche” translates to “bell” and evidently, this model’s name is derived from the fact that the watch resembles one resting on its side. 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. If one is accustomed to telling time off traditional analogue wristwatches, this may require some time to adapt to.

According to the Maison, this unusual configuration may seem strange because it was originally intended for a brooch watch, rather than a wristwatch. Often worn fastened to a garment, the brooch watch would be oriented upside down with 12 at the bottom, so that the wearer can easily read the time with the numbers in the correct position when tilted upwards.

This quirky design was first introduced as a wristwatch in 1921. Due to its unconventional display of time, it has appeared more sporadically than other Cartier classics. Paying homage to this century old model, the Cloche de Cartier was revived in 2021 as a 100-piece limited edition in the Privé Collection, following the re-issue of the two equally bizarre and iconic watches, the Asymetrique and the Crash. Despite its insubordination to basic horological principles, the watch was greeted with tremendous enthusiasm by the modern day collectors.

Irrationally attractive, the present example is encased in pink gold, boasting a delicious grey dial with a white minute track, further complimented by Roman numerals and hands that matches the tone of its frame. A cognitive subversion of time, the watch very much falls in line with the distinct design codes of Cartier, featuring a beautifully balanced dial and a sapphire cabochon crown. Numbered 6 of a 100 pieces, this timepiece is offered at Phillips for the first time in excellent overall condition with its original accessories. Designed to turn heads, the Cloche is certainly destined to grace the wrists of connoisseurs in search something outshines the ordinary.