Watch Icon: Four Versions of the Cartier Ballon Bleu
Although the Ballon Bleu de Cartier is a relatively new watch collection from the Maison, it has become one of the brand’s most popular models already. And that’s why we’re comfortable calling it a modern icon despite its relatively short life compared to Cartier’s other legendary watches such as the Santos and the Tank. In fact, we’ve even spotted the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton and her sister Pipa Middleton wearing a Cartier Ballon Bleu, as well as celebrities like Johnny Depp, Rachel Zoe, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Miranda Kerr.
Introduced in 2007, the Ballon Bleu is a prime example of Cartier’s ability to take unique silhouettes and turn them into highly coveted timepieces for both men and women. French for “Blue Balloon,” the Cartier Ballon Bleu gets its name from the blue stone-set winding crown that looks like it is floating within its rounded crown guard frame. An exquisite watch collection with options for gents and ladies, here are four versions of the Cartier Ballon Bleu watch to feast your eyes on.
Two Tone Cartier Ballon Bleu with Pink Dial
The two tone Cartier Ballon Bleu ref. W6920098 sports a 33mm round steel case accented with an 18k pink gold winding crown. Protruding from that winding crown, we see the signature synthetic cabochon-shaped blue spinel. The bracelet also beautifully combines stainless steel and 18k pink gold for a versatile watch that can match with plenty of jewelry and accessories.
Housed within the case is a pink mother-of-pearl dial, which sets the background for the familiar Cartier Roman numeral indexes and blue center sword-shaped hands. The Cartier Ballon Bleu ref. W6920098 runs on an automatic movement–a thoughtful mechanical detail that isn’t always found in ladies’ luxury watches.
Two Tone Cartier Ballon Bleu with Diamond Dial
Also a bi-metal version, but this time a combination of yellow gold and steel, the two tone Ballon Bleu de Cartier ref. WE902061 boasts diamond hour markers for some added shine. There are 11 diamonds in total on the silver guilloche dial, leaving one space for a black Roman numeral XII at 12 o’clock.
The round 33mm steel case comes with an 18k yellow gold winding crown–of course, also set with a blue cabochon-cut stone. The beautiful and comfortable bracelet includes 18k yellow gold center links flanked by steel outer links. Also an automatic watch, this is a gorgeous everyday ladies’ luxury watch.
Pink Gold Cartier Ballon Bleu with Black Leather Strap
If it’s a full gold case you want, then don’t miss this stunning 18k pink gold Cartier Ballon Bleu ref. W6920097. The 33mm round case, winding crown, and adjoining lugs are crafted in warm rose gold, while the silver guilloche dial offers a striking contrast. The dial includes the characteristic blue hands and black Roman numerals and like many Cartier watches, includes a secret signature incorporated into the VII index.
Emphasizing the elegance of the watch and offering a lighter way to wear the timepiece is the black leather strap with a simple tang buckle, also in rose gold. Further adding to the appeal of the ladies’ Ballon Bleu is the automatic caliber powering the watch.
Pink Gold and Diamond Cartier Ballon Bleu
For an ultra-lavish version, there’s the full pink gold and diamond Cartier Ballon Bleu ref. WE9008Z3. Donning a larger 42mm round case in 18k rose gold set with not one, but two rows of brilliant white diamonds on the bezel, this is one striking edition of the Ballon Bleu watch.
The link bracelet is also fashioned in 18k rose gold and offers plenty of heft on the wrist. Along with the blue sword-shaped center hands, there’s also a discreet date window at 3 o’clock–all powered by an automatic movement. Contrasting with the pink gold shade of the watch and is silver guilloche dial with the customary black Roman numerals. Simply amazing.
Throughout its more than 160-year history, the house of Cartier continues to a leading brand in the luxury space. They skillfully manage to remind the public about their storied history while also refreshing their current collections with new products suited to contemporary tastes. And the Ballon Bleu de Cartier is a wonderful balance of classic Cartier design traits and modern style.
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