In the ever-evolving world of luxury watches, Cartier’s redesigned Baignoire collection takes center stage and captures the hearts of fashionistas and watch connoisseurs alike. The resurrection of this iconic timepiece, with its elegant oval shape and rich heritage, has become a symbol of sophistication and style.
Round Shape Into Oval
Launched in 1912, the Baignoire challenged the conventions of watch design by transforming the traditional round shape into a distinctive oval, taking its name from the French word for bathtub. As Pierre Rainero, Director of Image, Style, and Heritage at Cartier, explains, the name is a reference to the VIP seats at the opera, where the wealthy sat in a special arrangement that resembled a bathtub.
The new Baignoire collection, which was launched at the end of June, has quickly become a coveted accessory, with waiting lists even before the official launch. Paige Reddinger, watch and jewelry editor at Robb Report magazine, notes that the demand for this timepiece is unusual for women and is similar to the excitement usually associated with limited-edition men’s watches or coveted models from brands like Rolex or Audemars Piguet.
Understated Sophistication
The Baignoire is characterized by its timeless and feminine design, which has undergone various reinterpretations over the years. The latest edition includes the Baignoire mini bangle and the standard size, which is available in 18-karat yellow or rose gold. Priced at $11,800, these exquisite pieces sold out quickly, prompting Cartier to announce that they would be relaunched in November.
“The fashion world took notice, and the Baignoire is the talk of the town,” says Ms. Reddinger. The oval shape, reminiscent of classic elegance, is enjoying a resurgence in popularity and reflects a general trend towards smaller, more refined timepieces. Cartier, known for its feel for the pulse of fashion, seems to have struck a chord with consumers looking for a return to understated sophistication.
Searching for Baignoire
Demand for the Baignoire is not limited to official retailers; eBay reported a significant increase in searches for “baignoire” and “mini baignoire” in the United States and Canada. The jewelry stacking trend has contributed to the Baignoire’s success, as it fits seamlessly into a collection of bracelets such as Love, Juste Un Clou, and Clash.
Cartier vintage retailer Harry Fane attributes the renewed interest in the Baignoire to Cartier’s strategic marketing. He points to the success of reissued Cartier classics such as the Crash and the Tank Normale and suggests that the brand’s ability to create demand is a driving force behind the Baignoire’s popularity.
Cartier’s Heritage
For those who appreciate the historical significance of the Baignoire, the collection is a tribute to its roots. An early version appeared in 1912, and in 1958, the design evolved into the contoured shape we know today. Over the years, Cartier introduced different variations, including the Baignoire Allongée and medium-sized versions with integrated gold bracelets.
The new Baignoire models with leather straps, reminiscent of the models from the 90s, have further fueled the vintage market. Collectors are drawn to the historic charm of these older models, and vintage retailers are reporting increased interest in both new and classic Baignoire timepieces.
In a world where trends come and go, the Baignoire watch is a testament to Cartier’s enduring heritage and its ability to seamlessly blend tradition and modernity. Blending these qualities is a distinguishing feature of online too, as when you traditionally came to a casino not to become rich but to spend a good, joyful time in it. The sleek, golden shape of the watch stays true to the original design and emphasizes the importance of a flawless fit and precise geometric shapes.
‘New Hot Timepiece’
As Arnaud Carrez, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Cartier, explains, the Baignoire collection represents Cartier’s commitment to respecting its heritage while constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity and taste. The new Baignoire is not just a watch, it is a work of art that captures the essence of being a jeweler and adorns the wrist with splendor and style.
In the words of Jill Newman, who bought the Baignoire in 1994 as her first luxury watch after seeing it on a PR manager, the Baignoire has always been a symbol of ladylike style. Today, almost three decades later, the Baignoire is the “new hot timepiece”, attracting the attention of a new generation of aficionados.
Conclusion
The redesigned Baignoire by Cartier is more than just a timepiece: it is a fusion of history, craftsmanship, and contemporary style. With its timeless elegance and renewed popularity, the Baignoire collection has once again established itself as an essential accessory for anyone who appreciates the intersection between fashion and watchmaking.
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