C.1970s Cartier vintage elliptical shaped manual winding in 18KYG with enamelled Roman numbers

Description

Vintage. No box nor papers and a fitting box will be given.

This is a rare and possibly unique vintage Cartier with a mechanical hand-winding movement dating back to 1960s~70s and likely produced before or during the acquisition of the three houses of Cartier between 1972-76.

Fresh to the market for the first time, this watch has been in our vault for 21 years and we acquired it from a collector who kept it for many years so this watch has never gone on sale for decades.

The solid 18ct gold case was Made in France with matching hallmarks and hand stamped numbers typical of Cartier. It is not a Baignoire but a variant of the Elliptical formed case and rather large at 23x31mm. The architectonic design features double rings thoughtfully created around the body with the lower ring curved and these details can be appreciated by viewing from the sides. The tapered flat bezel ring features black enamelled Roman numerals which conceals the crown and hides the gaps between the lugs when a strap is fitted underneath which is a masterstroke in design. The case is completed with gold screws holding the strap on the lug ends and crown is a typical cabochon of Cartier. One does not collect Cartier watches for the movement but the design and they are certainly innovators.

Watch is in very good condition and the movement shines like new. There are no gaskets so this watch is not water resistant. Prior to Yr 2000s, Cartier does not manufacture their own watches and always collaborated with watch makers from supply of movements to completed watches. This is one of those low production model and possibly unique as we have never come across another. It is definitely rarer than any of the twelve models from the Louis Cartier collection launched in 1973.

It takes about 12 winds on the crown to full power reserve and it is our honour to offer you this unique vintage watch by Cartier. The strap can be easily replaced and a dark coloured vintage croco would be very complimentary.

The Baignoire is enjoying a resurgence now as collectors around the world take notice of its pleasing shape and pedigree. A pre-owned mini in quartz is easily commanding US$5K now while a new piece starts from USD7250. Vintage Cartier watches with mechanical movements like this are often going into six digits in auctions. Don’t miss this rare opportunity and it is the only one of this design that we have ever come across.