Shop Pre-Owned Cartier Tank Watches With Bezel
Looking for pre-owned Cartier Tank Watches? Turn to Bezel to shop for this watch and find the perfect model to elevate your style. Arguably the most popular watch with a rectangular case in horological history, the Cartier Tank symbolizes sophistication and timeless elegance that has survived many generations. The unique design of this flagship Cartier timepiece has positioned it as one of the most sought-after timepieces in the watchmaking world by seasoned collectors and casual buyers alike.
The Legacy of Cartier Crash Watches
The Cartier Crash has one of the most original designs you’ll ever see in the horological industry. Unlike other traditional watches with a round, rectangular, or tonneau shape, this timepiece comes in an unusual contorted oval shape.
This watch has been nicknamed the “Cartier Dial” by enthusiasts due to its similarities to the design and that of Salvador Dalí's surrealist masterpiece painting, "The Persistence of Memory." Although the painting was created nearly three decades before the Crash was released, it was not the inspiration behind this timepiece.
The Cartier Crash was created in 1967 by the maison working at Cartier's London boutique. The design is credited to Jean-Jacques Cartier (grandson of the company’s founder) and Rupert Emmerson, the head designer at the watchmaking brand’s London branch.
One popular theory is that the design of the Cartier Crash was inspired by a customer’s Cartier Baignoire timepiece that got damaged in a car crash. While this is an incredible origin story (that also happens to conveniently explain the origin of the collection’s name), the tale of the damaged watch has been refuted in recent years by Cartier. A less interesting but equally impressive explanation is that Cartier and Emerson simply decided to create a timepiece that would resonate with London’s vibe during a period popularly called the Swinging Sixties.
The Cartier Crash was produced by the London Boutique in small numbers throughout the 1970s and 80s and was highly sought-after by collectors. By the 1990s, Cartier’s Paris branch also presented its first Crash model. These watches were nicknamed Paris Crash to distinguish them from the London models.
Since the start of the 20th century, Cartier has been releasing new editions of the Crash periodically. A version with a gold bracelet and tear-drop links was released in 2013. This was followed by skeletonized models in 2015 and 2016. The last Crash model launched by this watchmaker was the enamelled Crash Tigrée watch released in 2022 as a limited edition piece.
What Does a Cartier Crash Watch Cost
Although the Cartier Crash has a storied history that stretches back over 55 years, the watchmaker has maintained strict control over the collection’s supply. The limited quantity of these Cartier watches means the few available models are highly sought after by collectors. Naturally, this also translates to a high price tag in retail and secondary markets.
Retail Cost
The Cartier Crash is a scarce timepiece. In fact, this watch is barely ever available in standard retail. Most models are produced as limited edition pieces and are only available to a few buyers. Prices for brand-new Crash models typically start at around $60,000 for the most basic versions. However, since most models are limited editions decorated with precious stones and other embellishments, they tend to command prices in the six-figure range. Some of the most exclusive pieces in the collection may fetch over $400,000 at retail.
How Much Does a Pre-Owned Cartier Crash Cost
Due to their rarity, pre-owned Cartier Crash costs are high in the secondary market. The Paris Crash variants are less scarce, but their sales price typically varies between $195,000 and $275,000 in the secondary market.
Due to their extremely low production number, it’ll take a lot of luck, patience, and time to find London Crash models for sale. They also tend to be more expensive, with most models only showing up periodically at auctions and selling for eye-watering amounts. A vintage Cartier Crash model from 1967 was sold for $1.65 million at an auction in 2022.
Key Features of Cartier Crash Watches
Asymmetrical "Melted" Case Shape
The distorted oval case is the defining feature of all Cartier Crash models. This surreal case design makes it look like one of the melting watches from Salvador Dalí’s artwork. This unique design has been described by experts as a sense of artistic rebellion and Cartiar’s rejection of the norm. It is one of the major reasons why Cartier Crash watches are highly sought-after in a market saturated by round, square, or rectangular watches.
Distorted but Elegant Dials
The Crash’s dial follows the unconventional shape of the case. As a result, even the signature Roman numeral hour markers appear stretched and distorted as they conform to the dial's contours. This small detail adds to the watch's surreal aesthetic. Regardless, the dial is still clean and elegant. Most models of this watch feature a clean, light-colored dial (typically silver or white) providing a legible backdrop for the black numerals.
Sophisticated Case Materials
Most Crash models have casing crafted from precious metal materials such as 18k yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or platinum. Despite their quirky design, these watches were designed to communicate a sense of luxury. In line with this sophisticated aesthetics, many examples feature diamond embellishments in their bezel, lug, and dial, adding even more opulence to the already striking design of the case.
Popular Cartier Crash Watches
Cartier Crash watches have been around for decades. Yet, only a few models of this timepiece have been created. Each version of this watch is characterized by a unique defining feature that distinguishes it from other models, from skeletonized dials to diamond-encrusted casing. Modern versions of the Crash are particularly varied, embracing new materials and design elements while maintaining the same core identity. Here’s a list of some of the most popular Cartier Crash models released so far:
Selling Your Cartier Crash is Easy with Bezel
If you’re considering selling your Cartier Crash timepiece, you can do that conveniently on the Bezel platform. We operate a marketplace for collectible and highly-sought sought-after timepieces where you can list your Cartier Crash for sale, connecting you with a ready market of collectors and watch enthusiasts.
Our experts are also here to guide you through the sales process, handling everything from start to finish for your convenience. This includes verifying your timepiece through our in-house authentication process and appraising its value so you can receive fair and competitive offers. Our experts will also handle marketing and buyer inquiries to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.
Turn to Bezel for All of Your Luxury Wristwatch Needs
Bezel is a one-stop shop for all your pre-owned luxury watch needs. For collectors looking to upgrade their collection with new watches or regular buyers looking for an everyday piece, Bezel offers a convenient and affordable way to shop in the pre-owned market.
On the Bezel app, you can discover highly coveted luxury watch models from some of the biggest brands in the industry - all conveniently listed in one place. Our modern marketplace further simplifies finding the perfect piece with its powerful search feature and filters that allow you to narrow your search based on the brand, case material, size, and price.
For buyers looking for something specific not listed on our site, Bezel’s special concierge service will help you find the right watch through a network of trusted sellers. You can shop with complete confidence on Bezel, knowing that every watch on our platform undergoes a rigorous in-house authentication process. Furthermore, our buyer protection policy guarantees the quality and authenticity of your purchase, providing you with true peace of mind as you find the perfect timepiece for your style and taste.
