MINI PANTHÈRE MYSTERY CLOCK
Like a classic story that is retold time and again, Cartier mystery clocks have inspired the Maison’s watchmakers with the same intensity since the start of the 1910s. The mystery of their design and what makes them work lies in the creation of new interpretations and new material combinations. This year, however, it’s the scale that is changing. The mini Panthère Mystery Clock is unveiled in proportions that enhance it. This transformation changes the role and function of the object; the mystery clock becomes more delicate, a truly precious, miniature piece. This transformation in aesthetics is no less technical.
It takes 24 months for this mystery clock to be completed and for its 225 components to be developed, manufactured and assembled at the Cartier Manufacture in La Chaux-de- Fonds in Switzerland. A fully fledged research and innovation laboratory, the Manufacture is a centre that serves both creativity and continuous research towards the improvement of Cartier creations. Since 2001, all watchmaking professions have been based at this singular site, allowing for the creation of Cartier watches, from conception to production: cuttingedge technology works hand in hand with traditional, artisanal crafts.
The geometry of this creation, in yellow, pink and blue, is handed down from its predecessors. The time is displayed on a circular, diamond-set bezel surrounded by, for the pink and blue enamel versions, concentric circles and, for the version in yellow enamel, a sunray motif. Hour markers in yellow sapphires or baguette-cut diamonds punctuate the diamond-set bezel at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock. On each side of the transparent dial, engraved gold and enamel plates adorn the rest of the clock with a groove motif. On the rock crystal, this motif adds texture and depth. Everything is mounted on an obsidian base whose colours vary from model to model. This is where Cartier chooses for the panther to appear. In the style of a basrelief displaying diamond fur, onyx spots and an emerald eye, the animal moves to the rhythm of a new, mysterious and intimate era. An exclusive series limited to three pieces.
