Cartier Crash white gold NSO

The Watch

Emblematic. If there could only be one watch to reflect La Maison's alluring flair merged with its mastery of sophistication, it would be the Crash. This phenomenon of a Cartier has enjoyed a recent moment in the limelight, catalysing many current trends and market shifts, not least becoming the darling piece for those fortunate enough to craft semi-customised pieces within Cartier's NSO (New Special Order) program. Take this piece, a special order realised between the original owner and Cartier in 2021. Based on other NSOs we've seen, it's evident that La Maison is open to striking and very creative ideas, but for this example, the brief was kept elegantly restrained: a white gold case, white opaline dial, blued hands.

It's easy to get lost in waxing lyrical about the magic of a Crash, especially thanks to its asymmetrical case. Believed to have been initially based on a Maxi Oval before the idea came to pinch the ends and add a kink, the case is curvaceous, sculptural, and individual. This execution is realised in 18k white gold, a metal historically reserved exclusively for special pieces such as the modern skeleton and gem set references of the 21st century. As with much of Cartier's watchmaking, classically executed Crash examples are typically rendered in yellow or rose gold, with some in platinum, making this original inspired piece in white gold a seldom-seen beauty.

Harmony is Cartier's unwavering, omnipresent trait, and its existence lives in all facets of their icons. Still, the relationship between the case and dial of a Crash is unlike any other. Presented in white opaline, the dial covers the great expanse forged by the case, filling each interior angle and flowing curve. Every Roman numeral is modified in proportion and appearance to reflect and conform with the undulating case form. Of particular note is the exploded 'V' and 'XII' at opposite ends of the dial. A classic set of blued sword hands complete this quintessential Cartier. 

The Movement

The mechanical calibre 1917 MC by Cartier powers this NSO Crash. Named after the year the Tank was first introduced, this slim tonneau-shaped calibre carries a Côtes de Genève striping, 19 jewels, a power reserve of 38 hours and a height of just 2.9mm.

How It Wears

To say a watch wears 'like nothing else' is nearly as overused as calling a watch iconic, but in the case of the Crash, it may be true. Looking down at it on the wrist, it emulates a piece of sculpture art more than a conventional timepiece. It's a watch whose reputation proceeds itself, throwing one of the strongest punches despite its 24mm by 42mm proportions. Few watches spark conversations with admirers quite like a Crash does, and in this white gold rendering with equally stark and monochromatic dial execution, the striking nature of its footprint is even more special. Unisex in wrist presence, significant in white gold, and truly timeless in execution.

Condition

Dating from 2021, this NSO Cartier Crash in white gold is presented today in mint condition. It is offered as a full set, including its original Cartier blue alligator leather strap and matching white gold deployant clasp.

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