Recently, the Duchess of Cambridge has been spotted wearing a Cartier timepiece during her late excursion to Australia. Far from the first member of the royal family to be seen wearing an example of Cartier’s handiwork, Kate Middleton’s chosen watch appears to be the Cartier Ballon Bleu Medium watch, and so we thought we’d spend a little time having a look at this particular timepiece in more detail.
Cartier has been known for centuries – at least informally – as ‘the Jeweller to Kings’ and this reputation is thoroughly well deserved. This celebrated Parisian brand name has frequently been called upon by royalty to craft some of the richest and most opulent luxury jewellery pieces that you could possibly imagine. These unique statement items command staggering value and appeal, but their more widely accessible watches and jewellery are no less attractive, despite their less ‘exclusive’ status.
In the past, more traditional Cartier watches have been seen gracing the wrists of royal British ladies, but Middleton has clearly chosen to reflect her more ‘youthful’ persona by selecting a timepiece that is a little less conventional. Cartier has created the Ballon Bleu de Cartier range to be the veritable epitome of elegance, and the light and almost ethereal aesthetics of this family are almost matchless in this respect. The rounded form of the 36 mm case is slightly larger than some comparable models, but nevertheless remains very understated; a favourite consideration of the Duchess of Cambridge.
However, ‘understated’ certainly doesn’t translate as ‘undistinguished’ in this case. The case adheres to a smooth convex form that echoes the gently floating contours of its namesake, and the polished or satin finishes of the stainless steel are almost akin to a shining liquid in their beauty. Cartier’s trademark Roman numerals are resplendent upon the dial of the Ballon Bleu, but in this case they have been seamlessly and cunningly blended around the curve of the fluted crown.
This crown is one of the Ballon Bleu’s most memorable characteristics, as a sapphire cabochon has been encircled by a minuscule surround of precious metal. The resulting orb complements the timepiece far more than any faceted jewel ever could, and it also provides a twin to the sword shaped hands of the guilloche dial in terms of colouration. The central portion of the dial is also stunningly detailed with curving embellishment, so despite its simple appearance there are a multitude of small assets to discover about this watch.
The Duchess of Cambridge appears to have chosen the quartz version of the Ballon Bleu as opposed to the automatic mechanical models. Whilst some may see this as a lessening of prestige, Cartier’s quartz movements are proven to be extremely accurate, and come with the added benefit of keeping perfect time without the need for any manual intervention at all. For a practical timepiece that exudes feminine charm from every angle, it is difficult to imagine how Middleton could have chosen her watch any more wisely.
Here at Banks Lyon, we are pleased to have this superb timepiece in stock, and it can be yours for just 36 monthly payments of £85.56 alongside a 20% deposit. Many other watches in our collection have also been exhibited by royal personages as well. For example, Prince William favours an Omega Seamaster, and countless other watches have graced the wrists of the royal family throughout the years. Whatever watch you’re looking for to add a touch of splendour to your life, we’re confident that we can be of assistance. Call us now on 01524 38 48 58 for more information.
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