Cartier Gondole Automatique Midsize

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Cartier released the ‘Louis Cartier Collection’ in 1972 to celebrate moving its manufacture from France to Switzerland. This exclusive line set out to celebrate Cartier’s rich heritage and featured twelve full gold classic and contemporary Cartier models. The Gondole was one of the new additions that celebrated the flashy aesthetics of the 1970s. The best known version of the Gondole is the ‘Jumbo’ version. The midsize version we have now, though, combines the bold and funky looks of the Gondole with a slightly more wearable case size. Measuring 27 x 31 mm, the Gondole Midsize is the perfect size for ladies as well as more classically minded gentlemen. The Gondole was released in two orientations: vertical and horizontal. This model is the vertical one and is executed in 18k yellow gold. The watch includes a lovely stepped bezel, giving it some visual heft on the wrist, and features cutouts for the leather band. Despite the funky case, the dial of the Gondole is classic Cartier through and through. The white dial features the instantly recognizable black painted Roman numerals, painted inner minute track, and the simple painted “Cartier” signature. The “Paris” signature at the 6 o’clock position indicates that the watch was retailed by Cartier’s legendary flagship boutique at Paris’ Place Vendôme. Finally, the blued swords hands match the iconic sapphire tipped crown we have come to know and love. This Gondole comes on a black lizard leather strap and an 18k yellow gold Cartier folding clasp. The watch runs on an automatic movement and was just serviced by Cartier, as attested by the accompanying service papers.

Introduction

Cartier  Louis-François Cartier took over his master’s jewellery workshop in 1847. Over the years, his sons and grandsons inherited the family business and expanded the brand by opening shops in New York and London. King Edward VII of the United Kingdom granted Cartier a prestigious royal warrant in 1904, calling the brand “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers.” Such was the renown of Cartier, that royal warrants soon rolled in from all over the world (among which, Belgium, Egypt, Greece, Siam, Spain, Portugal, and Russia). While Cartier is known primarily for its jewellery, it also has a storied history in watchmaking. Cartier’s first foray in watchmaking came in 1888, offering exclusively ladies models. In 1904, Louis Cartier gave his friend and Brazilian aviation pioneer Santos Dumont a watch to wear during his flights. Until then, wrist watches were worn exclusively by women and men opted for the traditional pocket watch. The ‘Santos-Dumont’ was not only the first wristwatch geared towards men but also the first pilot’s watch.

Shipping

We offer complimentary worldwide shipping by insured courier. Packages are generally dispatched within 2 days after receipt of payment and are shipped by private courier, PostNL, FedEx or Ferrari group; depending the value and destination. Consult us if you prefer another method of shipping. For all destinations tracking is available.