The Ballon Bleu, with its fluid look, is a decidedly modern offering in Cartier’s classically oriented line-up of watches.

Introduced in 2007, its rounded case, integrated crown guard, and Roman numeral dial quickly established it as a contemporary Cartier icon. The name “Ballon Bleu” refers to the distinctive blue sapphire cabochon crown, embraced by the smooth arc of the case.

This ref. 3869 Ballon Bleu features a 28 mm 18k rose-gold pebble-shaped case with a beautiful domed sapphire crystal that flows seamlessly into the polished convex bezel and, in turn, into the rounded case back. An integrated crown guard, which gently slopes over the iconic sapphire-tipped Cartier crown, accentuates the unique look of the Ballon Bleu.

This pleasing aesthetic is only briefly interrupted by the short lugs that connect seamlessly to the beautiful chocolate brown alligator-leather Cartier strap. The silvered dial features Cartier’s iconic painted Roman numerals and blued sword hands.

The classic looks of the dial are juxtaposed against the quirky inward curvature of the minute track and the III numeral to make room for the crown guard on the right hand side of the case. This modern design classic comes with the original box, a chocolate brown alligator-leather Cartier strap, and an 18k rose-gold Cartier Ardillon buckle. Inside ticks a precise quartz movement, offering everyday reliability wrapped in timeless Cartier elegance.

In the Netherlands, the current retail price is €11.100, making our asking price an exceptional opportunity to acquire this watch at less than half the retail value. A modern classic with unmistakable Cartier design codes, the Ballon Bleu 28 mm remains one of the maison’s most versatile and elegant timepieces.