Important Watches I

Cartier & Vacheron Constantin

Paris Tank Cintrée | A yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1970

Auction Closed

April 24, 08:45 AM GMT

Estimate

120,000 - 240,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Cartier & Vacheron Constantin

Paris Tank Cintrée

A yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1970

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 1052 mechanical, 22 jewels

Movement number: 676'598

Case: 18k yellow gold, case back secured by 1 screw

Case number: 156'778

Closure: 18k yellow gold Cartier bracelet and 18k pink gold double folding clasp

Size: 35.5 mm length x 21.7 mm width, bracelet circumference approximately 160 mm

Signed: case back signed Cartier Paris, inside case back signed Vacheron Constantin, dial signed Cartier and movement signed Vacheron Constantin

Accessories: none

The present watch is truly fascinating. What might seem to be a neat vintage Cartier at first glance reveals much more upon closer inspection. What connoisseurs may first notice is the slightly unusual highly silvered dial, along with plume shaped hands. Flipping the watch over, one will also see a distinctly, almost exaggeratively cursive "Cartier Paris" signature on the case back and inside the folding clasp. The case shape is, of course, a variant of the Cintrée, one of the most iconic and coveted Cartier models. The clasp itself is also rendered in pink gold, a hallmark of vintage Cartier. Alone, these features are already enough to pique the interest of Cartier collectors, but it is only when the case back is opened that an awe-inspiring realisation can be made.

Though on the outside this watch is a Paris Cartier through and through, of course complete with its full suite of French hallmarks, there is nothing on the inside of the watch to indicate that it is anything but a Swiss made Vacheron Constantin. The inside case back is prominently adorned with two Maltese Crosses, the Vacheron Constantin signature, as well as being signed "Swiss". The movement used is Vacheron's own calibre 1052, often found in their women's watches of the period, also prominently Swiss signed. Indeed, the present Paris Tank belongs to a very small and seldom seen batch of wristwatches manufactured for Cartier by Vacheron Constantin.

This watch not only represents a period that can be described as the golden age of Cartier Paris, where collaboration and experimentation was commonplace and resulted in beautiful and often unique creations, but is also a true bridge between a horological powerhouse and the master of design, during a period where both were at their best.

卡地亞及江詩丹頓 Paris Tank Cintrée

黃金鑲鑽石鏈帶腕錶，約1970年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."