The Gondola debuted in 1973 as part of the Louis Cartier Collection, a series of twelve distinct gold watches created to re-establish Cartier’s high-end identity. This collection was especially significant, marking the reunification of Cartier’s three historic branches — Paris, London, and New York — as well as the shift of production to La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.

 

The Gondole is celebrated for its stepped bezel and rounded, architectural case. It was produced in three primary shapes: a vertical elongated rectangle with rounded corners, a horizontal “TV screen” design inspired by the era’s televisions — considered the rarest variation — and a softer elliptical form.

 

At hand we have a lovely reference 78085, featuring the horizontal case in 18k yellow gold in a 26 x 24 mm sizing and presented in beautiful condition. The cabochon-topped winding crown remains crisp, and the watch is fitted with a white dial adorned with classic black painted Roman numerals. The “Paris” signature at six o’clock indicates it was originally sold through Cartier’s flagship boutique at Place Vendôme.

 

Paired with a handsome Bulang & Sons leather strap, the watch houses a manual-wound movement that has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready to be enjoyed for many years to come.

 

We’re especially drawn to this kind of Cartier — funky yet sophisticated — perfectly capturing the transition from classicism to 1970s modernism. Get in touch !

 

Specifications :

 

• Cartier reference 78085 Gondole

• Serial 780850xxx dating to the 1970s

• 18kt yellow gold case 26x24mm

• White dial signed PARIS with Roman numerals

• Blue cabochon winding crown

• Manual wind movement

• Bulang and sons leather strap

• Fully serviced by our watchmaker

• One-year mechanical warranty

• Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping