Description:
CARTIER GONDOLE HORIZONTAL TV MAXI
The ‘Louis Cartier’ collection was introduced in 1972 to commemorate Cartier’s relocation of its production facility from France to Switzerland. This new collection featured 12 models inspired by past designs, including the Cartier Gondole Horizontal Grand and the Vertical Grand. Of these models, the Horizontal, affectionately known as the ‘TV’, is the rarest.
This Cartier Gondole Horizontal serves as another remarkable example of Cartier’s craftsmanship from bygone eras. Its extraordinary and pioneering design continues to captivate us with its avant-garde style. Affectionately dubbed the “Television” by Cartier enthusiasts due to its distinctive shape resembling a large TV screen, this particular Cartier timepiece is exceedingly rare, produced in limited quantities during the 1970s. Measuring 38mm in width, it was notably large for its time, adding to its rarity, especially considering it’s the largest Cartier television-style watch produced. Adorned with the classic cabochon and Roman numeral white dial, bearing the signature of Paris, this watch is truly stunning to wear.
This Cartier Gondole Horizontal TV Maxi represents a fine specimen of this rare timepiece crafted by Cartier in the 1970s. Overall, the watch is in excellent condition. The case retains its original finish without any signs of polishing over the years, while the mechanical caliber operates flawlessly. The dial exhibits some minor cracking on its lacquered transparent surface, a common occurrence among Cartier timepieces from the 1970s. What truly enhances the collectibility and rarity of this particular Cartier TV is the inclusion of its original 18kt yellow gold bracelet, complete with a Cartier-signed deployant clasp. Very few examples have surfaced with their original gold bracelets intact, making this specimen exceptionally rare and highly sought after among collectors. It’s an outstanding timepiece to add to a discerning collection, especially for collectors seeking something truly special for their Cartier repertoire.
Measures 38mm in width, Year 1970s circa.