No, it’s not a Tank. And yes, it deserves your attention!

While Parisian jeweler to the stars Cartier may be best known in horological circles for its famed Tank watch, the French firm produced — and continues to produce — numerous other models that deserve equal billing for their unique and sumptuous designs. 

Launched in 2007, the Ballon Bleu is an adventurous take on the Cariter aesthetic — which is of course itself already unique within the greater watchmaking world. Featuring an opulent, round case and a bubble winding crown, the Ballon Bleu provides a captivating housing for the maison’s world famous combination of Arabic numerals and thin sword hands.

This particular Ballon Bleu, a small version, comes in with a 33mm, diamond-set stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal, a 'guarded' sapphire cabochon crown, and a crisp silver guilloche dial with printed Roman indices and a matching blued-steel 'sword' handset.

Powered by an automatic movement, it comes paired to an integrated, stainless steel 'H-link' bracelet with a hidden deployant clasp.

With everyone clamoring for the Tank and the Santos, why not spring for something more subtle — but certainly no less splendid — in the form of the Ballon Bleu?

You won’t regret it!