18K White Gold Cartier Baignoire Diamond and Sapphire Deco-Style Watch
Watch (Luxury Timepiece / Jewelry Watch) · White Gold; likely rhodium-plated to achieve the bright, silvery-white mirror finish visible on the mid-case.
Purity: 18K Gold (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel.
Type
Watch (Luxury Timepiece / Jewelry Watch)
Purity
18K Gold (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel.
Gold Type
White Gold; likely rhodium-plated to achieve the bright, silvery-white mirror finish visible on the mid-case.
Weight
35-50 grams (total weight including movement and stones, with the gold case contributing roughly 15-25g).
Description
An exquisite উদাহরণ of Cartier's jewelry-making prowess, this Baignoire model features a curved oval case in solid 18K white gold. The side profile reveals a deep-set diamond bezel and signature blue sapphire cabochons that emphasize the 'Jeweler of Kings' pedigree. It serves as both a functional timepiece and high-jewelry accessory.
Key Features
Signature 'bathtub' oval case, sapphire cabochon crown, and the rare inclusion of sapphire-set lug caps which are hallmarks of high-end Cartier boutique editions.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish on the side profile; cool white tone with slight surface abrasions indicating natural wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically located on the case-back (not visible in profile); expected marks include '750', 'Swiss Made', and Cartier's 'Poinçon de Maître'.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 23mm-25mm case width excluding crown, with a case thickness of approx. 7mm; petite/ladies profile.
Gemstones & Inlays
Dual-row pavé-set round brilliant diamonds on the bezel; blue sapphire cabochon crown and matching blue sapphire lug-end caps.
Clasp & Closure
Connected to a leather strap; typically utilizes an 18K white gold 'C' shaped ardillon buckle or a deployant folding clasp.
Chain & Links
Not applicable (attached to an alligator or lizard leather strap); lug pins appear to be sapphire-capped screw-bars.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional stone-setting with minimal metal showing between diamonds; precision-milled gold case with seamless sapphire integration.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the sapphire cabochons, precision of the diamond pavé seats, and the specific curvature of the 18K white gold case.
Origin & Maker
Swiss Made by Cartier; a premier French luxury jeweler and watchmaker renowned for the 'Baignoire' (bathtub) oval shape.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary production reflecting the Art Deco-influenced Baignoire design originally conceived in 1912.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1990 and 2015 based on the stone setting style and the specific cabochon lug details.
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of early 20th-century Parisian elegance, often associated with Old Hollywood glamour and European aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; visible fine surface scratches (swirls) on the high-polish gold casing and signs of wear on the leather strap interior.
Value Estimate
$12,000 - $18,000 USD (secondary market), significantly exceeding melt value due to brand equity and diamond/sapphire content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaning due to pavé settings; clean with a soft cloth; keep away from chemicals; service movement every 5-7 years.
Similar Items
Cartier Tank Américaine in white gold, Patek Philippe Twenty~4, or Chopard L'Heure du Diamant.
Interesting Facts
The Baignoire design was a gift from Louis Cartier to the Russian Grand Duchess Pavlovna, inspired by the shape of a traditional bathtub.