Few watchmakers have explored the possibilities of shaped cases quite like Cartier. From the Tank and Tortue to the Santos and Baignoire, the maison's most celebrated creations have consistently challenged the conventions of traditional round watchmaking. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Cartier's various international operations developed increasingly adventurous designs, embracing exaggerated proportions, unusual case shapes and distinctive interpretations of the maison's established aesthetic codes. Among the most intriguing creations of this period were the Maxi Oval watches, whose dramatically elongated cases and curved profiles reflected an era of considerable experimentation. Today, these unconventional designs have become particularly fascinating to collectors, not least because of the differences between watches produced or retailed through Cartier's London, Paris and New York operations.

This remarkable 18K yellow gold Maxi Oval is an example associated with Cartier New York. Measuring an impressive 56mm in length and 30mm across, its elongated oval case is notably larger than the better-known London Maxi Oval, with a highly curved profile that gives the watch an unmistakable presence on the wrist. The dial features elongated Roman numerals that follow the proportions of the case. Its New York provenance is further supported by a Cartier New York stock number engraved on the case back, an important detail that distinguishes this watch from its London counterparts. Equally interesting is the movement within, which is a manually wound Audemars Piguet calibre K2050, highlighting the historical relationship between two of Switzerland's most prestigious names in watchmaking. Completed by an original Cartier yellow gold deployant buckle, the Maxi Oval represents one of the boldest expressions of Cartier's creativity during the early 1970s.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case is very well defined, with surface scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back retains crisp serial number, hallmark, and Cartier New York stock number engravings. The case screw heads show some wear. The cabochon-topped winding crown is in excellent condition. The dial exhibits some light surface spotting and a light stain along the right-hand edge. The blued hands remain reasonably clean. The crystal shows a number of surface scratches. It is fitted with a black leather strap and gold Cartier deployant clasp.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.