Cartier Ballon Bleu

No, it’s not a Tank. And yes, it deserves your attention! While Parisian jeweler to the stars Cartier may be best known in horological circles for its famed Tank watch, the French firm produced — and continues to produce — numerous other models that deserve equal billing for their unique and sumptuous designs.  Launched in 2007, the Ballon Bleu is an adventurous take on the Cartier aesthetic — which is of course itself already unique within the greater watchmaking world. Featuring an opulent, round case and a 'bubble' winding crown, the Ballon Bleu provides a captivating housing for the maison’s world famous combination of Arabic numerals and thin sword hands. This particular Ballon Bleu features a 36mm stainless steel and rose gold housing with a sapphire crystal, a 'bubble' sapphire cabochon crown, a rose gold bezel, and a lovely sunburst grey guilloché dial with black 'Roman' indices, a blued steel 'sword' handset, and an inner black minute track. Powered by an automatic movement, it comes paired to an integrated, two-tone stainless steel and rose gold 'H-link' bracelet with a hidden deployant clasp. With everyone clamoring for the Tank and the Santos, why not spring for something more subtle — but certainly no less splendid — in the form of the Ballon Bleu? You won’t regret it!