Description

The Cartier Privé collection serves as a magnum opus in the world of horology, acting as a dedicated sanctuary for Cartier’s most legendary historical silhouettes. It is within this collector’s range that the Maison breathes new life into its unique heritage, and few shapes are as evocative or eclectic as the Cloche.

Originating in the 1920s, the Cloche—French for “bell”—was initially conceived as a jewelry or brooch watch. Its unusual orientation, with the XII numeral aligned with the crown, allowed wearers to pin the piece to their attire and lift it for a perfectly oriented time check. By 1921, the design transitioned into a wristwatch, appearing in highly limited runs throughout the 20th century. Today, it resurfaces in its most technically transparent form within the Privé Collection.

The present model, reference CRWHCC0003, is a rare masterpiece crafted in 950 platinum, limited to just 50 pieces worldwide. The bell-shaped case measures 37.15 mm by 28.75 mm with a remarkably slender height of 6.7 mm. In keeping with Cartier’s high-jewelry traditions, the winding crown is set with a signature ruby cabochon, providing a vivid contrast to the cool brilliance of the platinum.

This skeletonized iteration transforms the movement into the dial itself. The 9626 MC manufacture movement has been ingeniously open-worked, with the bridges shaped into Roman numerals that indicate the hours. This architectural feat allows the wearer to peer through the heart of the watch, where the mechanical integrity of the 38-hour power reserve is on full display. True to the Cloche’s versatile heritage, the ninety-degree rotation of the dial allows the watch to be placed on a desk and used as a miniature clock—a seamless blend of functionality and sculptural aesthetics.

The timepiece is presented on a hand-stitched black alligator strap, secured by a matching 950 platinum buckle. As a limited edition of only 50 examples, the Cloche de Cartier Skeleton in platinum represents the pinnacle of the Privé philosophy: a profound respect for the past reimagined through the lens of modern mechanical transparency.

Cartier – Bio

Founded by Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847, the house of Cartier is the luxury jewellers by reference in France.
Jewellers of the royal family and their prominent entourage, they quickly acquired fame in Europe. Later Louis Cartier gave a second life to old watchmaking traditions with pieces like the mystery clocks, gem-set watches and other flamboyant pieces.

One of their iconic models called the Santos was made in 1904 for his friend and client the aviator from Brazil, Alberto Santos-Dumont.   Followed by other successful models like the Tonneau in 1906, the Tortue in 1912 and the famous Tank in 1919 to mention few. The brand stayed in the family until 1964 and is now owned by a Swiss watch group.