Cartier

Crash | A limited edition pink gold wristwatch, Made for the Hong Kong market, Circa 1994

Auction Closed

October 21, 07:40 AM GMT

Estimate

1,200,000 - 3,200,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Cartier

Crash

A limited edition pink gold wristwatch, Made for the Hong Kong market, Circa 1994

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 160 mechanical, 17 jewels

Case: 18k pink gold, case back secured by 4 screws

Case number: 1994 37 and A111387

Closure: navy blue Cartier alligator strap and 18k pink gold folding clasp

Size: 38 mm length x 22 mm width

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Cartier instruction manual and presentation box

An icon of radical design from the swinging sixties, the Cartier Crash is arguably the most celebrated and sought-after wristwatch by the esteemed maker. Forged by the great creator of shaped watches, its mysterious origin is the stuff of legend; some attribute its warped form to a melted Baignoire recovered from a car crash, while others see the influence of Salvador Dalí's surrealist masterpiece, The Persistence of Memory. Although the story behind the timepiece is both captivating and romantic, its origins are detailed in Francesca Cartier Brickell’s book, The Cartiers. In it, she shares a conversation with her grandfather, Jean-Jacques Cartier, about how the bold design was initially sketched out in collaboration with artisan Rupert Emmerson.

The present example, from 1994, is among the rarest of its kind. Specially created for the Hong Kong market, the watch features a stunning and extraordinarily rare burgundy-painted Roman numerals—a perfect complement to the case's tones. Its case back is engraved “1994 37”, identifying it as the 37th piece made that year. Gorgeously preserved by its original owner with a voluptuous, uninterrupted case, this treasure represents a rare opportunity for the discerning collector yearning for this beloved icon.

卡地亞 Crash

限量版粉紅金腕錶，為香港市場而製，約1994年製

附帶說明書及盒子

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."