7 NOV 3PM CET | LIVE AUCTION. Magnificent Jewels including The Bleu Royal
Embracing the Enigma:
The Legacy of Cartier’s Mystery Clocks and Decorative Arts
Lot 28: The Enigmatic Allure of the Cartier ‘Model A’ Mystery Clock
Circa 1935, the Cartier ‘Model A’ Mystery Clock remains a coveted masterpiece, a marvel of the Art Deco era that embodies the spirit of innovation and magic. Maurice Couët, the brilliant mind behind the ‘Model A’, drew inspiration from the illusions of Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, creating a timepiece that seemingly defies the mechanics of time. Each piece reflects months of dedicated craftsmanship, a symphony of expertise from watchmakers to polishers. The clock’s hands, floating ethereally, bear testament to Cartier’s fiercely guarded secrets of design, much like the enigmatic Sphinx. Priced between CHF 400,000-600,000, this rare artifact is more than a collector’s item; it’s a piece of history that continues to enchant and intrigue.
Introducing the charm of the Far East to European luxury, the Cartier Art Deco ‘Borne’ Strut Clock from circa 1926 presents a dial adorned with kingfisher feathers. These iridescent feathers, set against gold foil and blue enamel, showcase an exotic luxury rarely seen in the West. The nephrite panel and rose-cut diamonds complement the richness of the feathers, a feature that is both a nod to ancient Chinese artistry and a hallmark of Cartier’s innovative design philosophy. With an estimated value of CHF 30,000-50,000, this piece is a testament to the allure of combining different cultural elements to create something truly unique.
The Cartier ‘Panthère’ Clip-Brooch, with its coral and diamond-studded majesty, is a remarkable piece from the 1980s. The recumbent panther, astride a carved coral branch and paved with diamonds and sapphires, is highlighted by emerald eyes and onyx details. The brooch, detachable from its coral branch, demonstrates Cartier’s unmatched craftsmanship and Jean Claude Janot’s masterful artistry. Offered between CHF 100,000-150,000, it captures the essence of Cartier’s iconic panther motif, an emblem of grace, strength, and elegance.
A breathtaking creation from 1933, this Cartier Art Deco Ruby, Sapphire, and Diamond Sautoir represents the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship. It has graced exhibitions from Venice to Paris, illustrating the grandeur of Cartier’s artistry. With its pear-shaped briolette ruby and rich array of gemstones, this sautoir, valued at CHF 800,000-1,200,000, encapsulates the opulence and sophistication of the era, a true treasure among Cartier’s prestigious collections.
The Cartier Art Deco Diamond ‘Temple’ Brooch is a symphony in platinum and white gold, set with a meticulous arrangement of diamonds that reflects the geometric elegance of the Art Deco movement. Its timeless design, reminiscent of Cartier’s legacy from the 1920s, is valued at CHF 40,000-60,000. This piece is not just jewelry; it’s a wearable work of art that continues to influence design to this day.
These pieces, offered by Christie’s, are not merely possessions but are stories woven in gems and metals, awaiting their next custodian to continue their legacies.
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