CARTIER SANTOS RONDE AUTOMATIC 18K WHITE GOLD LAPIS LAZULI DIAMONDS

This watch is as rare as it is stunning. In fact, it is a piece unique. Featuring solid 18k white gold case and bracelet with diamond bezel and bracelet end pieces along with incredibly rare lapis lazuli dial. Dating to the 1990s, this collector’s piece has an automatic movement. Gerald Genta is well known for his design work with Audemars Piguet for the Royal Oak, and Patek Philippe for the Nautilus. He is less well known for his work with Cartier and the Pasha. It is likely that Mr. Genta personally designed this watch as a custom order. The octagonal bezel is one of Mr. Genta’s signature design elements. Solid 18k white gold case with integral white gold bracelet and sapphire crystal. Crown inset with sapphire cabochon. This is a Santos Ronde case, but the octagonal diamond bezel is most unusual on this model. Bracelet links are solid white gold and feature two screws each, while the end pieces which connect to the watch have two diamonds in place of the screws. Case dimensions are 37.7mm long by 32mm wide by 8.8mm thin. Case back has correct 18k white gold hallmarks and is signed CARTIER AUTOMATIQUE. Case back is secured with 8 screws. Most telling that this is a one-off custom watch is that the watch has no serial number, a sure sign that Cartier made this watch on a bespoke basis for an important customer. The original untouched and exquisite lapis lazuli dial is another tip-off that this is a special watch for Cartier. Signed simply CARTIER and PARIS. Original white gold sword style hands. Automatic winding Cartier Caliber AO77 with 17 jewels, which is clean and running. Watch is in unpolished new condition and is a remarkable collecting opportunity.