Cartier Baignoire Mini - ref. 1960 - c. 1990

Small watch, big story! 

Description

How could one speak of Cartier without thinking of the Baignoire model? A study in elegance, sensuality and delicacy, the Cartier Baignoire alone embodies both femininity and Cartier’s identity. It also showcases the Maison’s technical expertise in creating a movement that fits within an oval-shaped case. In this version, the oval case is smaller than that of the classic Baignoire, making the technical achievement even more remarkable. Another distinctive technical feature is the absence of a crown, allowing for an uninterrupted oval shape. The time is adjusted via the back of the watch, using a small stylus and push-button mechanism. The 18-carat yellow gold case completes the elegance of its petite size and transforms this watch into a discreet and precious jewel.

Rounded all-gold case, white dial, black hour markers and blued hands: all the signature codes of the Cartier Baignoire are present. This model is fitted with a Cartier brown alligator leather strap, paired with its signed 18-carat yellow gold pin buckle.

How to wear it?

In any situation, it will undoubtedly bring a touch of elegance to your outfit. A refined watch with beautifully rounded lines, designed to be worn every day, particularly thanks to its discreet dimensions. The Cartier Baignoire offers soft curves that rest delicately on the wrist.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Because the Baignoire is one of Cartier’s most emblematic shaped watches. A watch worn by countless women over the years: women with confidence, women of character, women who leave a lasting impression. What made Françoise fall for it was the ultimate combination of elegance and discretion: yellow gold, no crown, petite dimensions and a pin buckle. A jewellery watch that Françoise loves so much she almost forgets she is wearing it!

History

From Catherine Deneuve to Jeanne Moreau and Romy Schneider, the Cartier Baignoire has never ceased to captivate.

Although Louis Cartier had already introduced elongated watch designs in the early 1900s, the iconic model we know today was born in Cartier’s Paris workshops in 1958. A watch with feminine, sensual lines and an innovative, creative spirit. A few years later, the elongated Baignoire appeared in the London studios.

While the circular gold case has retained its rounded design, it has evolved through subtle variations over the years, as has the dial, sometimes featuring Roman numerals, sometimes Arabic numerals, and here presented in a different size. An intrinsically elegant watch that has travelled through the decades without losing any of its aura.