HERMES TAVANNES BELT WATCH
Hermès collaborated with Tavannes Watch Co., a well-regarded Swiss watchmaker, to produce a series of belt watches in the 1920s and 1930s. These watches were distinctive for their elegant design, blending fine Swiss horology with the luxurious style for which Hermès is known. They are now highly collectible due to their rarity, craftsmanship, and the appeal of vintage Hermès items in the luxury market. Collectors value the combination of Hermès’ design legacy with Tavannes’ horological expertise, and the silver models especially carry a distinct allure for their material quality.
The present Hermès co-signed belt watch is an exceptional example of this ultra-rare horological marvel. Produced in very limited numbers during the 20th century, these belt watches are highly coveted by collectors. The overall condition of this piece is outstanding. The “GrenĂ© Fab Suisse” signed dial is virtually mint, showing no signs of wear or damage from watchmakers.
The case is equally well-preserved, with only minor wear. It is crafted from sterling silver, bearing the correct 0.935 hallmarks. A charming patina has developed on the silver, giving it a warm, yellowish tone. The cabriolet mechanism, used to extract the watch from the belt, functions flawlessly, as does the caliber inside this miniature masterpiece. Additionally, the original buckle is still present.
CARTIER TANK REVERSO DUAL TIME YELLOW GOLD
The term “Reverso” typically conjures thoughts of the iconic watch model produced by Jaeger LeCoultre. However, it’s worth noting that in the horological world’s rich history, other brands have also made significant contributions to the concept of reversible timepieces. In 1930, Cartier made a notable stride in this direction when they developed and patented a similar reversible case system, initially christened the “Cabriolet Reverso” before adopting the moniker “Basculante”. This innovative approach to watch design didn’t gain widespread recognition until much later, specifically in the 1970s when Cartier introduced the Tank Reverso, an exemplar of this inventive concept.
The Cartier Tank Reverso presented here holds particular fascination. It features a Paris dial, clearly establishing its association with Cartier Paris—a fact that gains further authentication through the presence of French hallmarks on the caseback. The desirability and collectibility of this Cartier Reverso are heightened by its unique characteristics. Notably, it boasts two distinct dials, each powered by separate calibers, affording the watch the ability to indicate two different time zones. What sets it apart even more is the crown attached to the case, differing from the traditional and more common cabochon-operated mechanism found in other Cartier Reverso models.
Moreover, the watch’s exceptional quality is unmistakable. Its dial remains untouched, and its calibers perform flawlessly as designed. The case retains its robust profile and sharp lines. The combination of outstanding quality and rarity elevates this timepiece to an exceptional addition for any Cartier collection.
BULGARI TUBOGAS YELLOW GOLD
The Bulgari Tubogas is an iconic design, renowned for its flexible and seamless bracelet construction inspired by industrial gas pipes. Introduced in the 1940s, the Tubogas technique uses tightly coiled bands of metal that elegantly wrap around the wrist without the need for soldering.
This design is both innovative and luxurious, combining bold style with practical wearability. Over the decades, Bulgari has incorporated the Tubogas into various timepieces and jewelry, making it a symbol of the brand’s Roman heritage and modern sophistication. Its sleek, fluid form continues to captivate collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.
This Bulgari Tubogas, dating from the 1970s, is a prime example of the luxurious style and exceptional design that defines the Tubogas collection. With its elastic bracelet and rounded case resembling the head of a snake, it is an incredibly glamorous accessory for any woman who appreciates Bulgari and fine timepieces. The overall condition is outstanding, with the bracelet’s elastic mechanism functioning perfectly and free from flaws. The dial is virtually mint, showing no signs of aging, while the case and bracelet display minimal wear, completely normal for a watch of this age. Crafted entirely in gold, as confirmed by the hallmarks on both the back of the case and the bracelet, this piece is a testament to Bulgari’s unique design and the enduring allure of the Tubogas.
BULGARI DIAGONO SCUBA YELLOW GOLD
In 1988, Bulgari introduced the Diagono, their first sport watch, featuring an integrated strap and a quartz chronograph movement. It was relatively affordable compared to Bulgari’s usual price range. In 1994, they launched the Diagono Scuba, a diving variant equipped with a COSC-certified movement and 200m water resistance. It featured a distinctive rubber strap with large, bracelet-like links connecting the case and strap. The Bulgari Diagono Scuba was primarily produced in steel, with only a few examples made in gold. These gold Scuba models were extremely expensive due to their bulk and weight, and as a result, they were produced in very limited numbers.
This watch is one of the very few Bulgari Diagono models made in yellow gold. Due to its bulky size and weight, it was difficult to sell, as the high price reflected the substantial amount of gold used. This rarity is further emphasized by the fact that many of these watches have been melted down in recent years for their gold content. Our example is excellently preserved, with the case showing some wear but likely untouched. The dial is in mint condition, and the movement functions perfectly. Even the rubber strap and clasp are original.
CARTIER CARRE’ LINGOTTE
The Cartier CarrĂ© Lingotte is an elegant square-shaped ladies’ watch from the 1990s, crafted in luxurious white gold. It boasts an integrated extendable bracelet, referred to as the “Ă 27 batons” bracelet, and features a secret signature at the 10 o’clock mark alongside classic “baton” hands. Measuring 14 x 14 mm, this timepiece is powered by a reliable quartz movement, ensuring precision and ease of use. The design pays homage to the original “carrĂ© Ă bracelet extensible” model, first introduced by Cartier in 1950, blending timeless sophistication with modern craftsmanship.
The present Cartier CarrĂ© Lingotte is an exceptionally rare piece, crafted in luxurious white gold a hallmark of Cartier’s refined elegance. At the time, this watch would have been a high-end offering, thanks to its white gold case and the innovative quartz movement, which provided cutting-edge precision and convenience. The condition of this example is outstanding: the case shows only light signs of wear but remains sharp and well-preserved, while the dial is pristine, with the signature “baton” hands and hidden Cartier signature at 10 o’clock beautifully intact. The quartz movement is functioning perfectly and the integrated “Ă 27 batons” bracelet retains its original tightness with no stretch, ensuring a superb fit on the wrist.