The story of this Cartier Ellipse
Cartier has always excelled at imposing singular shapes that challenge the classic codes of watchmaking. While the Tank or the Santos are geometric icons, the Cartier Ellipse watch, sometimes referred to as the horizontal Gondole or Cushion, embodies the Maison’s creative freedom. This reference 8660 in 18-carat yellow gold, produced around the turn of the 1990s, belongs to a lineage of shaped watches that are first and foremost jewels. It does not seek technical performance, but pure elegance. It is a ladies’ watch that dresses the wrist with sculptural presence, recalling an era when Parisian design worked gold with generosity and volume.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Ellipse
The 26 mm-wide case stands out with its oval shape and its stepped double-gadroons bezel. Crafted in solid yellow gold, it features a fluid, domed architecture that captures the light with softness. The cream dial respects the brand’s signature codes: black Roman numerals, inner railway minute track and blued steel sword hands. The beaded crown is adorned with the traditional sapphire cabochon. This piece is powered by the Cartier calibre 66, a reliable Swiss quartz movement that helps maintain a slim profile. The major asset of this watch lies in its integrated yellow-gold bracelet. Made up of domed, polished gadroons links, it offers a supple drape and a remarkable total weight of over 71 grams. The hidden clasp ensures perfect aesthetic continuity of the bracelet.
Why this Cartier watch
Acquiring this pre-owned Cartier Ellipse is a relevant choice for those seeking a characterful jewellery watch. Unlike models fitted on leather, this all-gold version is a piece of tangible heritage. Its substantial gold weight makes it a precious object, while its signature Godron design is returning to today’s trends for its vintage, opulent aesthetic. The rarity of this Ellipse model on the market, particularly in this state of preservation with its original bracelet, makes it a desirable collector’s piece. It wears with the ease of a gold bracelet, while offering the distinction of a timepiece signed Cartier.
Delivered contents and condition
This watch is delivered in a The Swiss Collector box. It has benefited from a careful polish for sale, restoring its full brilliance. The 18-carat yellow gold is luminous and the bracelet links are in excellent condition. The quartz movement has been checked and works perfectly. Please note the bracelet size, which is adjusted for a wrist of 16 cm maximum. It is a piece ready to be worn, combining the aesthetics of new with the charm of the past.
Warranty and delivery
This exceptional piece benefits from The Swiss Collector 24-month warranty. It is available for immediate collection from one of our points of sale in Switzerland or can be shipped via secure, insured and tracked delivery.
* Very good condition – previously worn and polished watch. Light signs of external wear. Case and bracelet in excellent overall condition.
