Description

The present watch is the Cartier Crash London New Bond Street Exclusive, reference WGCH0050, a rare and poetic reinterpretation of the most subversive design in horological history. While the Crash was born in the “Swinging London” of 1967, this modern iteration in platinum marks a significant departure from tradition; historically, the original London Crash was never produced in this noble metal. By pairing the avant-garde, distorted silhouette with the weight and prestige of platinum, Cartier has created a timepiece that is not merely a remake, but a sophisticated evolution of a legend.

It was exclusively available through the New Bond Street boutique in London—the very location where Jean-Jacques Cartier and Rupert Emerson first conceived the design over 50 years ago—this release maintains the extreme exclusivity that has defined the Crash for decades. The case architecture remains true to the original’s melted, asymmetrical form, while the beaded crown is set with a ruby cabochon, a signature Cartier hallmark reserved for their platinum creations.

The dial is a masterclass in respecting heritage, featuring the iconic distorted Roman numerals and blued steel sword hands that follow the case’s surrealist curves. While the dial bears the “Swiss Made” signature, the caseback is distinguished by a special engraving of the New Bond Street boutique emblem, firmly anchoring the watch to its London roots.

Powering this platinum rarity is the Calibre 1917 MC, an in-house, manual-winding movement. Measuring just 2.9 mm in height, this tonneau-shaped calibre was specifically chosen for its slim profile, allowing it to fit perfectly within the Crash’s unique, undulating case. It operates at a traditional frequency and provides a 38-hour power reserve, a testament to the compact engineering required for such an unconventional form.

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.