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 Cariter 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 Roman numerals and thin blue sword hands.
This Ballon Bleu, a Reference W69010Z4, is housed in a 28mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal and a guarded sapphire cabochon crown. It features a silver dial with printed black 'Roman' indices, a blued-steel 'sword' handset, and an inner minute track. Powered by a quartz movement, it comes paired to an integrated multi-link stainless steel bracelet with a deployant.
With everyone clamoring for the Tank and the Santos, why not spring for something different — and splendid — in the form of the Ballon Bleu?