Cartier has always been known for its focus on bringing creativity to its designs. They focus on four aspects based on their vision: shape accuracy, attention to detail, proportions, and purity. They achieve this with one of their latest designs, the Cartier Ballon Bleu. Each aspect exemplifies this watch’s design, making it one of their most revered collections.
As you may have guessed, the name draws inspiration from circular shapes, hence the word “ballon,” French for the word balloons. The design intends to look like a balloon floating on your wrist. The word “bleu” is because of its winding mechanism made from a blue sapphire cabochon. The Blue Balloon of Cartier has been a prestigious part of the brand since 2007 and remains one of its most beloved creations.
A Brief History of Cartier
Cartier has been one of the most historical names in French retail, originating in the mid-1800s in Paris. Throughout Cartier history, luxury has always been a part of their brand, and watches were one of their first offerings to showcase it.
Eventually, they would become one of the most prestigious names in the world when it came to jewelry. Today, it is one of the most valuable brands to own. It is a name with ties to celebrities and royalty. Numerous country’s royals have ordered jewelry made by Cartier, a trend popularized by Great Britain’s King Edward VII.
When it came to wristwear, they made a name for themselves by releasing numerous rectangular and square watch designs. Some of their most popular designs include the Cartier Tank and Santos.
Ballon Bleu’s Rise to Prominence
It was only in 2007 that the manufacturer began paying attention to round watches for their Cartier Ballon Bleu collection. The original line featured flat 28 mm watches for women to larger 46 mm pieces for men. The blue cabochon was apparent in its crown, and designs either had diamond-studded dials or Roman numeral designs.
The most expensive comes with 18-karat gold and diamonds encrusting the piece. The expense is also because of the tempered sapphire, which powers the watch’s automatic caliber. One of its most unique elements is a flying tourbillon, which acts as a second-hand display. They also dial in with the blue theme by featuring a coating with a translucent blue layer made from enamel.
Apart from the gold Ballon Bleu watches, there are also Cartier Ballon Bleu stainless steel varieties in more modern designs. Recent releases also see more variety with its diameter sizes, because of the preferences of celebrities and royalty.
Cartier also released the recent Ballon Bleu Carbon line, which exhibits a more sporty aura. It has a carbon-based coating, making it scratch-resistant and durable compared to previous designs. The carbon finish also gives it a sleeker finish.
Reasons to Buy a Ballon Bleu
There are reasons why many people should include a Ballon Bleu in their collection. It can also be a beautiful luxury watch to own as your first if you’re looking to get one. Here are some of the many reasons why it should be a consideration:
- Cartier is an ever-growing brand and marks itself as a valuable name amidst a competitive luxury watch market. Company sales continue to grow, which will only bode well for its products long-term. You can say that Cartier luxury pieces can line up with other jewelry as an investment.
- Cartier’s deep history in France and many other countries adds to its prestige. Owning Cartier means being a part of a brand that served kings and other royalty. You are buying designs that celebrities and other notable figures enjoy.
- The Ballon Bleu’s design is iconic, with no other brand matching its circular focus. The cabochon at the side is also unique, making it a piece that stands out for any outfit. It’s available in classic colors, making it a great timepiece to round out a collection.
- Ballon Bleu has something for those who love classics and others who enjoy a more modern feel for their watches. Getting a Carbon would allow you to get a piece that matches well with power suits, business attire, and sportswear. On the other hand, the original Ballon Bleu collection works well for formal events and smart casual attire.
- Durability is never a question when it comes to Ballon Bleu de Cartier. The design implements durable materials and new technology to make it scratch and wear-resistant. It’s even more evident with their new releases.
Overall, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier collection features a classic and elegant take on watches. Its roundness is one of its selling points and provides accuracy among the best. Cartier also designed it to be easy to wear and maintain.
Considerations to Take into Account Before Buying
One of the things that stands out with this collection is the variety of colors available, as seen in its dial and bracelet. For example, men and women can enjoy the new pink dial and bracelet design from Ballon Bleu. The watch does a great job of standing out without being overpowering.
However, if you don’t like noisy watches, the Ballon Bleu may not be something you’d want to invest in. It has a thin case, and you can hear the movements inside it often. However, if that isn’t a dealbreaker for you, it’s a watch that’s worth the price.
Another consideration is that the watch has no water resistance. It won’t be something you can bring to the beach or take a dip in the pool. If you plan on going to these places often, the Ballon Bleu may not be the ideal choice for it.
Other than that, these watches are some of the highest-rated in terms of style and quality. It’s also at a notably lower price than many other luxury prices. You could say that you are taking out most of the value even in a brand-new purchase. You’ll maximize your money even more if you can find a second-hand one in good condition.
One distinct advantage of the Ballon Bleu is that it’s simple enough to wear, but also has the elegance that can make it work with almost any attire. It’s a watch you can use daily. One of the biggest challenges in purchasing one for your collection is its availability. Like many luxury watches, new releases often sell out fast. It may be challenging to get one directly from them. The good news is that you have stores like Bob’s Watches that have pre-owned and vintage watches for you to choose from.
The Most Popular Ballon Bleu Models
The Cartier Ballon Bleu is a popular choice among politicians, royalty, and celebrities. Notable figures who have adorned this elegant timepiece include Kate Middleton with her signature Cartier Ballon Bleu, as well as Johnny Depp and former President Bill Clinton. The following models are particularly esteemed by collectors and enthusiasts
- Ballon Bleu W69009Z3 / 3001: This model features a two-tone design with stainless steel mixed with 18k yellow gold. Reviewers say that it’s very comfortable. It has a beautiful Roman numeral and a small date window in the three o’clock area.
- Ballon Bleu W6920079: A sportier version of the Ballon Bleu. It features a 42-hour power reserve, the date at the nine o’clock side, and a crocodile leather strap. It’s popular because of its masculine aura and elegance.
- Ballon Bleu W69012Z4 / 3001: One of the classic looks for the Ballon Bleu and one designed for both men and women. Its simplicity adds to the versatility, as you can wear it on all occasions. It’s an option for those looking for an all-purpose watch.
- Ballon Bleu CRWGBB0039: One of the newer releases from Cartier features a pink gold/rose gold design. It has a visually appealing design that’s simple yet complex, the more you look into its features. There is also a lot of flexibility with the strap, bracelet, and dial.
The Ballon Bleu de Cartier is a bold and beautiful collection that mixes the refinement of French watch design with the elegance and reliability found in Swiss watches. It is a stunning jewelry piece that displays the best aesthetics among watches. It is unisex, and the design isn’t overbearing, despite the detail in its most intricate elements.
A Refined and Harmonious Collection
The Cartier Ballon Bleu is often hailed as the understated star of Cartier’s illustrious watch collection, a timepiece that effortlessly transcends fleeting trends. Its timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship ensure its place as a perennial favorite among watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. As Cartier continues to solidify its position as one of the premier brands in luxury horology, the Ballon Bleu stands out as a must-consider option for discerning collectors and first-time luxury watch buyers.
Whether you’re looking to make a memorable first venture into the world of high-end timepieces or seeking to add a distinguished piece to your existing collection, the Cartier Ballon Bleu is a purchase that promises to deliver lasting satisfaction. If you’re in the market for a Cartier Ballon Bleu for sale, we invite you to explore the curated selection at Bob’s Watches. Our competitive prices and commitment to authenticity ensure that you’ll find the perfect Ballon Bleu to suit your style and budget. Experience the joy of having your dream luxury watch delivered right to your doorstep, and take the first step towards owning a piece of horological artistry that will be cherished for generations to come.
