According to the story, a client returned a Cartier watch that had been involved in an accident in order to have it repaired and Jean-Jacques Cartier, then the head of Cartier London, was so taken with the shape of the case that he wanted to reproduce it.
Created in 1967, the watch was given the name "Crash" to symbolize the impact, the non-conformism and the creative freedom of the 70's. Cartier was not afraid of introducing some humour and overturning conventions in a world of precision and accuracy. To this day, Crash represents a seventeen underground icon for a informed elite.
Over the years, the Crash watch - always produced in very limited series - became a collector’s piece.
In 2013, a limited edition of four new models is launched. For the first time, the Crash watch is adorned with a delicate bracelet composed of drops in white or pink gold. In an even more precious version, the bracelet is entirely gem-set.
In reference to the year of its creation, this legendary watch is produced in 267 numbered pieces for the models with gold bracelets and 67 numbered pieces for the models with gem-set bracelets.
This rare object, a true object of desire, is only available in certain Cartier boutiques.
Technical data
Crash watch with pink-gold gem-set bezel
Case: 18-carat pink gold set with brilliant-cut diamonds
Diameter: 38.45 mm x 25.5 mm
Crystal: mineral
Case back: closed
Hands: sword-shaped hands in blued steel
Bracelet: 18-carat pink gold
Number of stones / carat weight: 150 brilliant-cut diamonds for approximately 2.15 carats
Movement: manual
Thickness: 8.80 mm
Number of jewels: 18
