Image courtesy: Cartier
A certain dainty, yellow-gold watch has been making waves over the last few months, and it hails from a familiar, beloved fashion house among PurseBop readers. While the French jewelry maker is best known for its Love and Juste un Clou collections, Cartier has taken social media by storm with the resurgence in popularity of the Baignoire watch. Keep reading to learn more about the history, craftsmanship, and iconic pieces of the Baignoire collection!
Image courtesy: @katsbling
Introduced in 1912 by Louis Cartier, the Baignoire collection is a perfect blend of timeless elegance and innovative watchmaking. Embracing a distinctive oval design, the Baignoire watch was among the first to break away from the traditional round watch designs of the early 20th century. Although ‘baignoire’ is French for ‘bathtub’ (which has a similar elongated, oval form), the watch’s unique design was instead likely inspired by the namesake VIP seats at the opera. The 1958 redesign solidified the Baignoire’s iconic silhouette, making it a staple in Cartier’s lineup. Initially seen as a bold design choice, the Baignoire watch’s elegant ellipse is now synonymous with sophistication and grace, appealing to those who appreciate both form and function in their timepieces.
Image courtesy: @helendriscoll_
Image courtesy: @lalilystyle
Image courtesy: @ rgarrahan
The craftsmanship of the Cartier Baignoire collection is also a testament to the brand’s dual identity as a jeweler and a watchmaker. Each Baignoire features a meticulously crafted 18-karat yellow, rose, or white gold distinctive oval case, with some models adorned by diamonds. The dials typically take on a simpler nature: classic Roman numeral hour markers and blue steel hands add an understated touch of timeless sophistication. Many models also feature a beaded crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon – a signature Cartier detail.
Image courtesy: @iitsninaaaa
Image courtesy: @ninasandbech
Image courtesy: @ninasandbech
The Baignoire collection has continued to evolve, introducing new but familiar models that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. The 2023 rendition of the Baignoire features a mini bangle bracelet model available in yellow gold, rose gold, and diamond pavé, as well as a mini version offered with various leather straps. These new iterations were met with enthusiasm from fashion enthusiasts and watch collectors alike, selling out during the summer 2023 launch.
The success of these new models further cemented the Baignoire’s status as a timeless classic, and the styles reappeared on Cartier’s website later that year. With prices ranging from $7,250 for the leather models to $48,800 for the diamond pavé version, the Baignoire remains a coveted piece for those seeking a blend of luxury and elegance.
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: Cartier
Created with a black varnished calfskin strap, a silvered dial, and an 18k yellow gold casing, this mini Baignoire watch is powered by precise quartz movements for reliable timekeeping. The yellow gold set against the black strap makes the piece pop, creating a subtle statement piece on your wrist for $7,250.
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: @jessingham
The delicate design of the mini Baignoire watch in 18k yellow gold makes it a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their everyday wrist stack. Retailing for $12,900, the size 16 version of this mini Baignoire is a must-have accessory for those who love and appreciate the elegance of jewelry combined with the precision of watchmaking.
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: Cartier
Image courtesy: @ rgarrahan
This exquisite timepiece features a rigid bracelet and beaded crown set with ~550 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling five carats, an 18k white gold case, and a sapphire crystal. The craftsmanship of this piece is unparalleled, with each element reflecting Cartier’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail. This $48,800 timepiece would make a stunning addition to any collection.
Image courtesy: @lalilystyle
Between Cartier’s strategic marketing and the fashion world’s renewed interest in smaller, refined watches, the Baignoire watch is at the height of popularity. The collection’s understated sophistication has made it a favorite among those who love to blend luxury with practicality. Fashionistas and watch collectors can appreciate the Cartier Baignoire as a symbol of versatile, timeless elegance and luxury.
Updated: February 18th, 2025
Comments