Cover The Cartier Crash in platinum (Photo: Cartier)
The Cartier Crash in platinum (Photo: Cartier)
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Fans of its offbeat, surrealistic style can acquire it at the jeweller’s London flagship at New Bond Street
Anyone who is familiar with Cartier’s arguably most unconventional watch will probably already be acquainted with its unusual backstory. Word has it that the irregular shape of the Crash was inspired by a damaged Cartier watch—mangled in a car accident—which was brought into the Cartier workshop in London for repair back in the 1960s. This clearly explains how the watch got its name.
It sounds plausible, since the case of the Dali-esque timepiece does make it look like a melted watch, but if you consider the time period from which it originated, it’s likelier that the fashion trends back then are behind its design and creation. Its bold look fits aptly with the vibe of the Swinging London era, in which the trend-conscious set had a fascination with all things edgy, loud, and that defied convention.
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Above Chic in platinum: The new re-issue of the Cartier Crash is available in limited quantities (Photo: Cartier)
Chic in platinum: The new re-issue of the Cartier Crash is available in limited quantities (Photo: Cartier)
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Since 1967, when the very first Cartier Crash was unveiled, only a limited number of the watch have been made and sold. Its rarity is thus one of the reasons behind its appeal, making it a design particularly sought after by fans of the brand, celebrities and watch collectors alike. Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner are among the famous folks who have been seen wearing it.
The last reissue of the Cartier Crash was released four years ago, produced in yellow gold, and was exclusively available at the Cartier flagship boutique at New Bond Street in London, where the very first Crash was sold.
This year sees the release of a new edition of the iconic watch—this time, in platinum. The dial details remains unchanged—featuring the familiar Roman numerals and sword-shaped blued-steel hands—as close attention has been paid to keep them as faithful as possible to the original Cartier Crash. Worth noting is that while the original had “London” discreetly inscribed on its dial, the new platinum re-issue (as well as the 2019 gold edition) features the words “Swiss Made” instead.
Besides the case material, what sets this platinum Cartier Crash apart from the 2019 release, is the ruby cabochon set into its beaded crown, instead of a sapphire one that’s used on the earlier edition.
Above A special engraving on the caseback of the new Cartier Crash (Photo: Cartier)
A special engraving on the caseback of the new Cartier Crash (Photo: Cartier)
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It is fitted with a different movement—the in-house 1917 MC mechanical calibre with a 38-hour power reserve, and comes with a grey calfskin strap that perfectly complements the silver sheen of platinum. On the back of the case is a special engraving of the New Bond Street boutique’s emblem—a subtle decorative touch that is a symbol of the location where the watch is exclusively sold.
Priced at £43,000, the platinum Cartier Crash will be produced in limited quantities. The actual number that will be made available has not been revealed but what’s certain is that you should count yourself lucky if you can get your hands on one.
