Though officially released to the public in 1957, the Baignore finds its origins decades prior. In 1912, Louis Cartier himself conceived of a case based around the idea of two straight parallel lines closing into a pair of connected parentheses, with the end result resembling the look of a bathtub (or "baignore" in French). The finished product was gifted to Cartier's top client, Grand Duchess Vladimir of Russia. Sadly, as she was one of the last members of the Romanov family to escape Russia during the Bolshevik Revolution, the watch was lost to time. However, the legacy of the piece managed to reach through to the second half of the 20th Century, and 45 years after Louis Cartier gifted his unnamed creation to his dear friend, the Baignoire collection was introduced to the public. The watch featured a rounder, more ovular case, and the Roman or Arabic numerals that circled the dial were stretched and collapsed in accordance with where they fell on the curves, lending the face of the watch a surreal, Dalí-esque appearance. Also added to the piece was an electronically powered quartz movement, bringing an invisible air of effortless modernity to a timepiece with roots in a time long passed. This example of the Baignore line features an 18 karat yellow gold case that houses an ivory dial and curves ever so slightly to fit the wrist of the wearer. The rare transparent case back provides a glimpse into the meticulously crafted movement, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry and precision within. As a manual-wind timepiece, the Cartier Baignoire offers a further connection to traditional watchmaking, requiring the engagement of the wearer to power the movement. This intimate interaction enhances the overall experience of owning and appreciating this exquisite watch. The burnt caramel leather strap adds a rustic edge to this elegant, quietly historic member of the Cartier stable. Maker: Cartier Model: W8000002 Baignoire, Skeleton Back Year: c.2000s Material: 18k Rose Gold, Cartier Burnt Caramel Alligator Strap Dial: Silvered Guiloche Case Measurement: 44.6mm x 34.6mm Movement: Manual Size: Fits Up To 8.0 Inch Wrist - Adjustable Weight: Grams Condition: Like New Includes: Original Cartier Box Made in Switzerland All of our pre-owned watches are guaranteed to be genuine and authentic. Stephanie Windsor also guarantees the proper functioning of this watch mechanism for ONE year from the date of purchase. Any damage due to accidents and/or wear and tear is excluded from this warranty. We do not recommend that vintage / pre-owned watches be submerged in water as we do not guarantee any waterproofing. Stephanie Windsor is an independent watch dealer and is not authorized, endorsed, sponsored, associated with and/or affiliated with the original watchmaker brand. Stephanie Windsor only sells pre-owned, vintage and refurbished watches that are subject to one or more of the following: repair and replacement of damaged or worn parts, replacement of the original watch crystal with aftermarket crystals. The original maker of the watch is not under any obligation to service watches sold by Stephanie Windsor.
