NO. 42973, CIRCA 1960

One of Cartier’s superb mid-century creations, this beautifully articulated 18k gold bracelet watch is a sublime example of the Maison’s precious metal workmanship at its finest, possessing a quality and style that transcends fashion. Cartier’s celebrated motto, ‘Never Copy, Only Create’, has particular resonance when considering the extraordinarily creative and glamorous ladies’ wristwatches that emerged from the company’s workshops during this period.

Ingeniously designed as an integral bracelet, the watch features a matching gold cover concealing the dial, creating the appearance of a sophisticated piece of jewelry until the cover is lifted to reveal the time. This seamless integration of watchmaking and jewellery design is characteristic of Cartier’s ability to transform a functional object into an elegant and discreet work of art. The movement is signed European Watch & Clock Co. Inc., numbered 545'158, while the caseback and deployant clasp are punched with gold marks and ‘EJ’ for Edmond Jaeger.

The opportunity to acquire a vintage Cartier bracelet watch is always an exciting prospect. The unspoken expectation of unparalleled design and unsurpassed craftsmanship fires the imagination, evoking the history, glamour and romance of the great jewellery house of Cartier. With its wonderfully articulated construction, concealed dial and timeless proportions, the present timepiece fulfils those expectations and more, beautifully demonstrating Cartier’s mastery of both jewelry and watchmaking.