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

Cartier Gondole in 18 k yellow gold Paris dial ref 78085

Cartier Gondole in 18 k yellow gold Paris dial ref 78085

Before/after