An elegant example from the 1990s, the design of the Cloche de Cartier dates back to the 1920s and is pleasingly classic, with a yellow gold case and silvered dial with sunburst-style guilloché radiating in a roseate from the centre. It wears the brand mark in the top half of the dial, while the coveted Paris mark is in the bottom half. This crucial design detail marks this example as one produced before Cartier introduced its redesigned 2007 Collection Privée Cartier Paris. Notably, although the Cloche has featured occasionally across Cartier's history, it has always been produced in very limited numbers. This is also the case with this reference 8876, as it is part of a limited series of just 200 pieces.
 
The watch is unusual because of its silhouette, with its name referencing the French word for a call bell. This distinctive shape is characteristic of the French jeweller’s approach to watch design. Indeed, the brand has produced several emblematic cases that speak to their signature blurring of the lines between high design with aesthetic classicism. From the Crash to the Asymétrique, and certainly in the case of the Cloche, Cartier has come to be defined by this inventive approach to form, which few traditional watchmakers have dared to take.
 
The first documented "cloche"-shaped piece appeared in 1920, in the form of a watch-brooch, while 1921 saw the introduction of a platinum and diamond "cloche"-style wristwatch. 1922 saw the very first official Cloche de Cartier wristwatch in yellow gold, with several models being created between then and the 1970s. The 1995 Cloche de Cartier watches were the first pieces that could also double up as a desk clock. Since then, a slightly upsized Cloche has become part of the Collection Privée Cartier Paris, in addition to the latest 2021 edition, making the series undoubtedly a modern classic.
 
Compared to modern examples, which feature exploding Roman numerals around the edge of the dial, this reference 8876 has Arabic numerals in an Art-Deco style. The execution makes for one of the most vintage-feeling watches of Cartier's modern production. This watch, which is symmetrical along a horizontal axis, can be read with ease both while on the wrist as well as when turned on its side to function as a desk clock. Further to this, the watch is ideal for those driving long distances, or for using while typing – plus any other instances in which the wearer’s arms are placed straight in front of them. This example of the Cloche is an excellent addition to any collection focusing on watches with unusual cases or intriguing ways of telling the time.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Cartier Cloche de Cartier will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Cartier Cloche de Cartier is in very good condition overall. The case, lugs, and caseback show light superficial marks throughout. More specifically, on the bezel at the 12 o'clock position, there is a minor ding below the crown as well as on the caseback. The guilloché dial has aged attractively and shows natural signs of age developing over time. The blued hands, cabochon crown, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections. The hallmarks and caseback engravings are crisp and defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.