Introduction
Launched in 2007 and introducing an entirely new aesthetic to Cartier’s line-up, the Ballon Bleu (“blue ballon” in English, after its sapphire winding crown cabochon) has received plenty of fanfare over its new 20 year production period. Typically offered as a ladies collection, the Ballon Bleu takes Cartier’s unique eye for design and detail and distils it into a timepiece that can still be casual while maintaining Cartier’s luxurious standards, of which the example that we have here certainly does. Made of 18kt rose gold, the 28mm Ballon Bleu ref. WJBB0015 features an integrated bracelet and a diamond-set bezel that combine to give the watch a hefty gravitas along with Cartier’s signature silver dial design with black Roman numerals and blued steel hands to give the watch a link back to Cartier’s iconic aesthetic.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Receipt
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
28mm
Model
Ballon Bleu
Movement
Quartz cal. 057
Reference
WJBB0015
Bracelet
18kt rose gold bracelet
Year
2007
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt rose gold
Included
Watch and original retailer receipt
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting Cartier's signature dial design in silver, the Ballon Bleu featured Roman numerals and blued steel hands upon its launch, which combined to ensure that the timepiece was unmistakable as a Cartier.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offering an integrated bracelet along with its new case design, the Ballon Bleu took inspiration from other Cartier models while also being injected with its own new aesthetic. Made of 18kt rose gold and boasting a diamond-set bezel, the ref. WJBB0015 leaned into the brand's association with luxury and jewelery.
THE CROWN
Taking some inspiration from the Tank Anglaise, the Ballon Bleu featured the same protective cap for its winding crown, but instead of being flat it blows out from the crown towards and away from the case such that it gives the dial and case a unique shape.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The rose gold case shows light surface marks and scratches. The case back is very clean, with crisp and legible engravings and hallmarks. The diamond-set bezel has some light scratches. The silvered dial is near-mint, featuring a hidden Cartier signature at ten and elegant blued steel hands. The rose gold bracelet has light surface scratches. The bracelet currently fits a 6 3/4” wrist, and has 12 links. The watch comes complete with inner and outer boxes, along with purchase receipts.
Our Perspective
Offered as a luxurious take on the Ballon Bleu, the ref. WJBB0015 brings the model's design and imbues it with prestige through its rose gold construction and diamond-set bezel.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
