This May, the world of high-end horology will turn its eyes toward Geneva and Hong Kong, where Phillips Auction, in collaboration with Bacs & Russo, is set to present an extraordinary collection of nine Cartier clocks.
Cartier’s Timeless Artistry: Nine Masterpieces to Shine at Phillips Auction
Sourced from a prestigious private collection and auctioned in Hong Kong and Geneva, the stunning clocks date from the early 20th century to the 1940s and represent the pinnacle of Cartier’s Art Deco craftsmanship and innovation.
Geneva: A Landmark Offering at the Phillips Auction
The Geneva Watch Auction: XXI, scheduled for May 10–11, will be the stage for a truly historic moment: the unveiling of the 1924 Cartier Portico Mystery Clock No.3.
This breathtaking masterpiece, standing 38.1 centimeters tall, is crafted from rose quartz, onyx, rock crystal, and diamonds, featuring a dazzling dial seemingly suspended within a temple-like frame.
Only six Portico Mystery Clocks were ever made, and Number 3 is among the most magnificent.
Having been showcased at the famed 1925 Exposition des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and later at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, this clock is considered one of the most important horological works of the 20th century.
Geneva will also witness the sale of a rare 1940s miniature prism clock, an ingenious Cartier creation where the dial can only be seen from the front thanks to a clever use of optical prisms.
Complete with its original presentation box, this charming piece offers a playful twist on traditional timekeeping.
Another highlight will be a refined desk compendium from circa 1925, merging silver, enamel, and rock crystal into a striking example of Cartier’s dedication to elegance and innovation.
Hong Kong: Cartier’s Eastern Inspirations Come to Life
Following Geneva, Phillips Auction continues its celebration of Cartier’s genius with The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XX, held from May 23 to 25.
A standout is a breathtaking 1930 Mystery Clock featuring a detailed coral sculpture depicting a dragon and Bixie, two mythological Chinese creatures symbolizing protection and power.
Framed by mother-of-pearl and black enamel clouds, and accented with diamond dragon-wing hands, this piece exemplifies Cartier’s ability to weave magic and mystery into horology.
Both clocks reflect Cartier’s deep engagement with Far Eastern art during the early 20th century.
Adding further excitement to the Hong Kong events is a minute-repeating desk clock from 1929, crafted with nephrite, jade, and exquisite Laque Burgauté panels.
Historic Icons Resurface
On May 24–25, the auction in Hong Kong will continue with two final treasures.
The first is a circa 1925 Modèle A Mystery Clock, a legendary Cartier innovation where the hands seem to float freely.
Crafted from rock crystal, yellow gold, mother-of-pearl, and diamonds, it stands as a testament to the illusionist artistry that defines Cartier’s most celebrated horological works.
Completing this unprecedented presentation is a grand pink marble table clock, dating from around 1905.
A Rare Moment for Collectors
For connoisseurs of fine horology, the upcoming Phillips Auction represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Many of these extraordinary clocks have been hidden away in private collections for decades, with some making their first public appearances in over 30 years.
As Aurel Bacs of Phillips remarked, bringing such a historically significant array of Cartier masterpieces to auction is both a privilege and a dream come true.
Questions & Answers
- 1. What is being offered at the Phillips Auction this May? Nine exceptional Cartier clocks from a prestigious private collection will be auctioned.
- 2. What makes the 1924 Portico Mystery Clock special? It is a unique and historic masterpiece featuring rose quartz and a floating dial illusion, considered one of Cartier's greatest horological achievements.
- 3. Where will the auctions be held? The auctions will take place in Geneva and Hong Kong.
- 4. Why are these Cartier clocks significant? They represent a fusion of Art Deco design, expert craftsmanship, and rare materials, many having been hidden in private collections for decades.
