T his 1949 Cartier Mystery Clock is a stunning fusion of craftsmanship and artistic innovation, showcasing the Maison's celebrated tradition of illusionary timekeeping. Designed in the shape of a strawberry, the clock is suspended from a heart-shaped 18ct yellow gold mount, with a delicate topaz mesh that evokes the fruit's texture. The time is indicated by a platinum and diamond-set peduncle, pointing to a rotating chapter ring adorned with diamond Roman numerals.
The clock's mechanism, hidden within the agate base, powers a sophisticated system of gears, pulleys, and chains, creating the illusion of floating hands without revealing the intricate engineering behind it. This extraordinary timepiece stands as a testament to Cartier's technical mastery and poetic beauty, featuring in the Important Watches: Part I auction taking place at Sotheby's Geneva on 11 May.
