The history of this Cartier Les Must de Cartier alarm clock
The House of Cartier has always known how to transcend the utilitarian object to turn it into a true piece of goldsmithery. In 1973, under the impetus of Alain Dominique Perrin, the creation of the Les Must de Cartier line overturned the codes of traditional luxury. The objective was audacious. It was to offer the brand's timeless elegance through everyday objects, without ever compromising on refinement. This desk alarm clock, reference 7511, is perfectly in line with this innovative approach. Its oval design is directly inspired by the famous Baignoire watch created in the 1910s. The fascinating anecdote lies in the treatment of its blue casing. While the eye immediately perceives the depth and golden flashes characteristic of lapis lazuli, it is in fact an exceptional mastery of Chinese lacquer. The Maison's craftsmen have meticulously integrated fine sequins to recreate the illusion of pyrite, demonstrating that luxury lies as much in the material as in the genius of its transformation.
Case, caliber and easel of this Cartier alarm clock
This delicate alarm clock has harmonious dimensions, measuring 100 mm high by 85 mm wide. Its case is fashioned from heavy solid brass, sublimated by rich gold plating that highlights its oval silhouette. The blue Chinese lacquer finish frames an absolutely pure white dial. The latter displays the brand's unmistakable aesthetic codes, with black Roman numerals, a chemin de fer minute track and slender sword-shaped hands in black oxidized steel. An additional hand is dedicated to the alarm function. Protected by a flat mineral crystal, the entire watch is crystal-clear. On the back, the circular brushed brass caseback houses a Swiss hand-wound mechanical movement with a 24-hour power reserve. 2 crowns, magnified by characteristic blue cabochons, set the time and alarm, while a dedicated pusher controls the alarm stop. The object rests majestically on a retractable easel whose feet repeat the 2 intertwined letters C of the Cartier signature.
Why this Cartier alarm clock
To acquire a piece from the 1980s Les Must de Cartier collection is to treat oneself to a fragment of the golden age of desktop watch design. This precise model seduces by its dual nature. It is both a reliable time-measuring instrument and a refined decorative object. Its alarm function lends it an authentic mechanical charm that invites a regular winding ritual. The beauty of its gold-speckled lacquer and the presence of the brand's signature hardware make it a particularly sought-after piece for art de vivre enthusiasts and Maison collectors, offering daily aesthetic pleasure on a desk or bedside table. Unlike the more fragile solid stone models, this lacquered iteration offers durability that has endured the decades.
Delivered contents and condition
This vintage alarm clock bears the marks of its history. It is in used condition with visible signs of wear, including chips and missing blue lacquer on the periphery, as well as light scratches on the gilded parts. These aesthetic features are in keeping with the piece's life and age. It is delivered with its magnificent original red case stamped Les Must de Cartier Paris and is accompanied by the brand's red wax seal. Polishing is available on request to restore the shine of the metal parts.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. This alarm clock is covered by our 12-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Used condition - Visible signs of wear. Aesthetics consistent with experience and age of piece. Polishing available on request.
