Important Watches

Cartier

Baignoire | A yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch, Circa 1965

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

200,000 - 400,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Cartier

Baignoire

A yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch, Circa 1965

Dial: silvered

Calibre: mechanical, 18 jewels

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

Case number: 49’503

Closure: black Cartier leather strap and 18k two-colour gold folding clasp

Size: 31 mm length x 22 mm width

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: none

Literally translating to “Bathtub”, it’s easy to see why the Baignoire name was bestowed to this Louis Cartier design. However even though the original Oval case shape had already been created by Louis Cartier as early as 1912, it would take another several decades for the Baignoire name to become attached to it, aiding the model to eventually become the cornerstone model line that it is today.

In the mid century, several of Cartier’s branches began accessing and reintroducing their old designs. This included the famed London workshop under the guidance of visionary artist Jean-Jacques Cartier, resulting in the Oval and Maxi Oval. At the same time, Cartier Paris also produced their own offering of the Baignoire. The two designs shared many traditionally Cartier design elements such as the Roman numerals and dial layout, but there are minute differences in the case shapes and signature that differentiate the two. Made in very limited quantities, as were all of Cartier’s mid-century creations, their revival during this period highlighted the potential of the shape, and laid the groundwork for its eventual mass reintroduction.

卡地亞 Baignoire

黃金鑲鑽石腕錶，約1965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."