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 ENAMEL DIAL LIMITED EDITION
Following the challenges posed by the quartz crisis, Ulysse Nardin underwent a revitalization in 1983 under the guidance of Rolf Schnyder, a former executive from Jaeger-LeCoultre. Collaborating with watchmaker Ludwig Oechslin, the brand shifted its focus towards complication and mechanical innovation while also upholding traditional enameling methods such as cloisonnĂ©, champlevĂ©, and grand feu. The San Marco collection served as a platform for showcasing these techniques, featuring elaborate portrayals of maritime his-tory, ships, clippers, and architectural landmarks. These intricately crafted pieces, produced in limited quantities due to the meticulous nature of cloisonnĂ© craftsmanship, epitomize Ulysse Nardin’s dedication to both artistry and technological advancement.
This Ulysse Nardin wristwatch is part of the prestigious “San Marco” collection, which was considered the pinnacle of Ulysse Nardin’s craftsmanship. The collection aimed to showcase the brand’s expertise in creating highly intricate timepieces, both mechanically and aesthetically, exemplified by the exquisite enamel dial of this particular watch. Limited to just 25 pieces, this watch is exceptionally rare, seldom appearing on the market. The enamel dial is themed around the historic event “French Canal 1653,” depicting the Battle of Scheveningen, the final naval battle of the First Anglo-Dutch War. The scene portrays a violent naval clash, including a sinking ship destroyed by the enemy and two more ships fiercely engaged in battle in the background. In addition to its rarity and beauty, this watch is exceptionally well-preserved, with minimal signs of wear on the case and a flawless enamel dial free from cracks or damage. A true work of art, it deserves a place in any esteemed watch collection.
BULGARI-AUDEMARS PIGUET SERPENTI TUBOGAS REF. 8162BC
Bulgari, with its Greek origins, was founded by Sotirios Boulgaris, who settled in Italy in 1884, establishing it as a jewelry house. Serpenti designs originated in the 1940s, crafted by Sotirios Boulgaris himself. Employing the Tubogas technique, reminiscent of ancient Roman jewelry, the designs embraced the wearer’s wrist or neck. The inaugural Serpenti watch emerged in the late 1940s, flaunting a coiled snake design and symbolizing elegance. Collaborating with esteemed manufacturers like Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet, Bulgari integrated high-quality movements. Over time, Bulgari refined the Serpenti watch collection, introducing novel designs, materials, and technical advancements, including the iconic Tubogas bracelet in the 1960s. The vintage Bulgari Serpenti watches are highly coveted and considered rare collectibles. These timepieces are regarded as true works of art.
The present Bulgari timepiece is a remarkable example from the 20th century, belonging to the Serpenti Tubogas collection. Its exceptional rarity sets it apart, as the Serpenti Tubogas watches were meticulously handcrafted and produced in limited quantities. Adding to its uniqueness, this particular watch features a double signature on the dial. Both the Bulgari and Audemars Piguet signatures are present because the movement inside this exquisite piece is an Audemars Piguet handwound calibre, operated by a crown on the right side of the rectangular case. Further enhancing its desirability, the case is adorned with precious diamonds on the bezel. Crafted from white gold, the case perfectly complements the exquisitely crafted Tubogas bracelet. This Bulgari Serpenti watch is in impeccable condition, with a tight Tubogas bracelet, flawless dial, well preserved case, and a perfectly functioning movement.
The watch is accompanied by its original box signed Bulgari Roma and Audemars Piguet Extract from the Archives.
Serial Number 383,XXX, Watch manufactured in 1967
JAEGER LE COULTRE ART DECO’ LADY WATCH ASYMETRIQUE
Art Deco watches, emerging in the 1920s and 1930s, are celebrated for their bold, geometric designs and luxurious materials. Characterized by symmetrical lines, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors, these timepieces reflect the opulence and modernism of the Art Deco movement. Watchmakers like Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Patek Philippe led the way in creating exquisite examples, often incorporating elements such as mother-of-pearl, onyx, and precious gemstones. Art Deco watches remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, representing a timeless blend of artistry and functionality. Their enduring appeal lies in their unique ability to capture the elegance and innovation of an era defined by rapid technological and social change.
The present Jaeger-LeCoultre Lady wristwatch is a stunning piece from the golden Art Deco era. The 14kt yellow gold case features a very unusual design with an asymmetrical shape. The lugs are different on each side of the watch, creating a fantastic visual effect. Another interesting feature of this wristwatch is the gilt black lacquered dial, signed “LeCoultre,” with geometric gold indexes. Very few watches of this type have surfaced on the market over the years, making this watch extremely sought after by Art Deco wristwatch collectors. The desirability of this watch is further enhanced by its overall quality, featuring a beautifully flawless black gilt dial and a perfectly preserved, likely untouched case. A similar example with a Cartier-signed dial was published in “White Cartier Bianco”, further testifying to the rarity of this model being featured in such an important book.