Important Watches

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2360. Crash | A rare and iconic limited edition yellow gold distorted oval wristwatch with asymmetric deployant buckle, Circa 1991 .

Cartier, Paris

Crash | A rare and iconic limited edition yellow gold distorted oval wristwatch with asymmetric deployant buckle, Circa 1991

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

1,200,000 - 1,600,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Cartier, Paris

Crash

A rare and iconic limited edition yellow gold distorted oval wristwatch with asymmetric gold deployant buckle, Circa 1991

Dial: white asymmetrical dial obliquely script signed Cartier London, distorted and stretched black radial Roman numerals, secret signature at VII, inner almond-shaped border, blued steel épée hands

Calibre: 5¾’’’ oval calibre AS 1978-2 signed Cartier 160, damascened Côtes de Genève decoration, lever escapement, 17 jewels, annular balance, flat hairspring

Case: 18k yellow gold, distorted oval case with curvature and undulating rounded bezel, t-bar Vendôme-style concealed lugs to case back, beaded cabochon sapphire-set crown

Case number: inside case back stamped 750 and numbered 4'405, case back exterior with signed Cartier Paris, Made in France, numbered 182-91, A108478, stamped 750 and twice with French eagle’s head assay mark

Closure: black unsigned leather strap and 18k gold deployant buckle the ‘D’ clasp with asymmetrical detailing, stamped 750, 18k, hys and SCA within oval cartouche for Cartier Société anonyme, signed Cartier Swiss Made and with rubbed eagle’s head assay

Size: 38.5 mm length x 22.5 mm width

Accessories: none

In the 1990s, the design legacy of the Crash was carried forward by Cartier Paris where, in 1991, the Crash was reintroduced as a limited edition of 400 pieces, marking the first official production of the model outside London. This new version retained the iconic asymmetry of the original while introducing subtle updates. The case measured 38.5mm x 22.5mm, slightly smaller than the London original, and the dial was signed “Paris” at six o’clock rather than “London.” A notable addition to this edition was Cartier’s secret signature, subtly inscribed within the Roman numeral VII.

While initially produced in yellow gold, the 1991 Paris Crash was later available through custom orders in other metals. The 1991 Paris Crash remains a highly desirable piece for collectors, its limited production, updated proportions, and Paris specific dial setting it apart while retaining the essence of the original design. Despite its evolving production history, the Cartier Crash endures as a symbol of artistic defiance and avant-garde luxury. A product of London’s most daring era, its reintroduction in Paris ensured that its legacy would not only continue but flourish, further solidifying its place as one of Cartier’s most collectible and celebrated designs.

卡地亞巴黎

Crash

罕有及標志性限量版黃金不規則形腕錶，備不對稱金錶扣，約1991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."