WHY WE CURATED IT: Most notable Cartiers are four-sided. Tanks, Santos, Pantheres, Tonneaus, even Tortues (plus each of their myriad variations) are all either overtly or subtly four-sided. Uncommon early circular pieces were all but forgotten until the 70s when Cartier revived them as Vendômes, named after the new Parisian boutique at Place Vendôme (to complement its historical flagship at 13 Rue de la Paix). Vendômes are some of the most underrated Cartiers and here we have a particularly meaningful one with a sumptuous “Plain Burgundy” dial (the brand’s emblematic colourway). No indices, just brand iconography. This dial is rich and exudes sophistication, befitting the ultra thin elegance of the piece. A variant pretty hard to come by in this size and condition!
CONDITION: 9.5/10 with almost no signs of wear save for some minor hairlines. Crystal, hands and cabochon are pristine. Dial has minimal spidering, not visible unless under strong light and magnification. Spidering is a natural sign of lacquer surface aging, reassurance of un-replaced originality, and prized by discerning collectors for their character and uniqueness (no two dials spider in the same way). Hands, crystal and cabochon-ed crown are clean. Caseback with crisp, deep engravings and hallmarks. Used original Cartier lizard strap is in great condition, with an original Cartier pin buckle. Movement in excellent health, and quartz-accurate.
