Cartier

The Crash is one of Cartier's most iconic and desirable case shapes. Legend has it that a Cartier wristwatch, probably a Maxi Ovale or Bagnoire, was involved in a car crash and sent back for repair. Upon seeing it, Jean-Jacques Cartier, who ran Cartier London, decided to create a wristwatch based on that damaged timepiece. Hence the Crash was born in 1967. At SIHH 2013 Cartier will reissue the Crash, but this time with a matching bracelet.

Though the Crash is now available as a special order on a very limited basis, and was also made as a limited edition several years ago, it has never before been available on a bracelet.

With a case size of 38.45 mm by 25.5 mm, the new Crash will be available in white gold or pink gold with a diamond set bezel (150 diamonds totalling 2.15 carats), and also with the option of a diamond-set bracelet (471 diamonds totalling 4.27 carats).

The fully set versions are limited to 67 pieces in each colour of gold, while the diamond-set bezel versions are limited 267 pieces in each metal.

Inside is a small, manual wind movement, probably from Frederic Piguet (I have to confirm this).

- SJX

It was always available as a special order, but this is the first time in several years that it is available as a limited edition that will be sold openly in stores.

- SJX

on a guy, minus the blings and on a strap.  A very interesting design.  Would have been even better if it was inspired by Dali (instead of an accident).

Look forward to see your SIHH report about it.  Thanks.

Melvin

Remember you heard that here first.

- SJX