Description

It is bold, it is eccentric, and it is crashed “if one goes by the legend”, revealed in 1967, the myth says it was inspired by a timepiece that survived a car crash – therefore the name « Crash ».
Actually the first impression is the resemblance with « The Persistence of Memory », the melting clocks from Salvador Dali.

Cartier is known for being the creator of trends, finding inspiration from highly unusual places. And it is perhaps most evident in the unique and unequivocal design of the Cartier Crash. Expressions like unorthodox and asymmetrical are an understatement when it comes to this case design.

This unusual case was first introduced in 1967 and has since been a controversial topic about its origins. The asymmetry of the case appears almost as if Cartier had taken an oval and completely crashed it. It is trendy, but not associated with a particular era. It is the definition of non-conformism and creative freedom. It is today, one of the most sought after and highly collectible timepieces.

In 2017, Cartier launched the Libre collection comprising of 5 new watches – the Baignoire Débordante, Infinie, Etoilée, Interdite and the Crash Radieuse.

The stylish diamond-paved case of this Cartier Crash made of white gold reveals a off white matte dial with black fancy roman numerals around lovely blue central hands indicating the hours & minutes • The inscription « Made in France », is visible on the bottom of the dial.  The crown is set with diamond.

It is a ladies model, small size case with a manual-winding movement hidden under the solid case-back where the inscription of the Cartier is engraved.  Fitted with a beige leather strap that gives the perfect contrast for the lucky few.

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.