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.
CARTIER REVERSO LADY WHITE GOLD
The term “Reverso” is often associated with Jaeger LeCoultre’s iconic watch model. However, other brands have also contributed significantly to the concept of reversible timepieces. In 1930, Cartier made a notable advancement by developing and patenting a similar reversible case system, initially named the “Cabriolet Reverso” before becoming known as the “Basculante.” This innovative design did not gain widespread recognition until the 1970s when Cartier introduced the Tank Reverso, a prime example of this inventive concept.
The Cartier Tank Reverso featured here is particularly intriguing. It has a Paris dial, affirming its connection to Cartier Paris, a detail further authenticated by the French hallmarks on the caseback. The desirability and collectibility of this Cartier Reverso are amplified by its materials. Notably, it has a white gold case paired with a matching white gold deployant, a rarity among Cartier Reversos. Although the size (approximately 19×26.5mm) is traditionally considered for ladies, its bulky shape makes it suitable for male collectors as well. Furthermore, the watch’s exceptional quality is unmis-takable. Its dial remains pristine, the caliber functions flawlessly, and the case retains its robust pro-file and sharp lines. This combination of superb quality and rarity makes this timepiece an outstand-ing addition to any Cartier collection.
ULYSSE NARDIN SAN MARCO JACQUEMART LIMITED EDITION
In 1989, the San Marco collection was introduced, featuring the first jacquemart minute repeater wristwatch, inspired by the Moors of Venice’s Piazza San Marco. A jacquemart is a mechanized automaton, typically made from wood or metal, that strikes the hours on a bell with a hammer. Having a wristwatch with jacquemarts was a world-class innovation. As the hour chimes, the automaton on the dial brings the two figures to life, making them appear to strike the bell simultaneously, something really extraordinary for a wristwatch.
The present timepiece is truly a work of art. Activating the minute repeater mechanism and watching the two jacquemarts strike the bell is a visual delight. Beyond its intricate mechanical complication, this Ulysse Nardin San Marco boasts a stunning design. The 40 mm case, crafted in white gold, features a prominent lever to activate the minute repeater mechanism. The dial is a breathtaking display of royal blue champlevé enamel, adorned with applied baton and Roman numeral indexes. Through the sapphire caseback, one can admire the beautiful movement, signed by the renowned Renaud & Papi, adding to the desirability of this watch, as these two are still giants in the watchmaking industry today.
The overall condition is exceptional. The mechanism has been recently serviced and functions flawlessly, the dial is in mint condition, and the case shows signs of wear but appears to have never been polished. This timepiece is a limited edition, with likely fewer than 10 examples in existence.
Includes the original box and papers.