Cartier

Cartier

Bamboo Coussin, Reference 78102

A yellow gold wristwatch, Circa 1975

Dial: white

Calibre: cal. 78-1 mechanical, 17 jewels

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

Case number: 0'231

Closure: unsigned beige leather strap and 18k yellow gold Cartier folding clasp

Size: 36 mm length x 28 mm width

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Cartier travelling pouch

The Cartier Coussin Bamboo Ref. 78102 is part of the Louis Cartier Collection of 1973, which marked a pivotal moment in Cartier’s history. Following the 1972 acquisition of Cartier Paris by Robert Hocq and an investment group led by Joseph Kanoui, Cartier embarked on a global reorganization to reunite its previously independent branches. By 1976, Cartier Paris, New York, and London were once again consolidated under single ownership, which strengthened the brand’s global identity and aligned its luxury offerings. This restructuring allowed Cartier to streamline its production practices and transfer almost all its watch manufacturing operations from Paris and London to Switzerland, facilitated by a key partnership with Ebel in La Chaux-de-Fonds.

With Ebel’s expertise, Cartier was able to produce watches in larger quantities and with the consistency needed to establish itself as a truly global luxury brand. Released in 1973, the Louis Cartier Collection was a retrospective series that revisited Cartier’s iconic designs while also introducing entirely new shapes. This ambitious collection included 12 models, all sharing key design elements such as gold cases, white enamel painted dials with Roman numerals, epée hands, and ETA or Ebel supplied movements signed for Cartier. While these features created a cohesive identity, Cartier boldly pushed the boundaries of form, experimenting with shape. Each model had a distinct case design, reflecting the brand’s creativity and willingness to innovate. As with other models in the collection, the Coussin Ref. 78102 features a five-digit reference number engraved on the case back, followed by a sequential serial number.

As with other models from the Louis Cartier Collection, the Coussin Bamboo Ref. 78102 demonstrates Cartier’s commitment to refined and innovative design. With its cushion-shaped case, soft rounded edges, and bamboo-style bezel, it brought a unique profile to the collection that blended Cartier’s traditional elegance with a modern aesthetic. The Coussin was produced in both large and small sizes as illustrated here. One of the most unusual designs from the 1973 collection, the Coussin’s balanced, distinctive form was perfectly aligned with the 1970s wider trend toward unique, unconventional wristwatch designs.

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The Bamboo Coussin is a remarkable Cartier timepiece that embodies the maison’s longstanding passion for innovative design, cross-cultural influences, and artistic creativity. Introduced in the early 1970s and offered in both men and lady versions, the present reference 78102 being the "Jumbo" size for men, the Bamboo model represents a striking yet sophisticated expression of Cartier’s bold design vision during one of its most inventive eras.

Inspired by Asian aesthetics—an enduring source of inspiration for Cartier since the early 20th century—the design reflects a cultural dialogue that can be traced back to celebrated creations such as the Tank Chinoise of 1922, as well as a range of exceptional Art Deco clocks and decorative objects distinguished by their geometric forms and non-Western influences. With the Bamboo Coussin, Cartier transformed the natural elegance of bamboo into sculptural gold elements that gracefully surround the case, combining organic fluidity with architectural strength.

The present example is a rare large-sized model crafted in yellow gold and is especially sought after. More than a timekeeping instrument, this watch is a wearable work of art and an important chapter in Cartier’s design heritage. It stands as a lasting testament to the maison’s exceptional ability to unite cultural inspiration, artistic innovation, and timeless craftsmanship in a single creation.