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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Manual-winding wristwatch

Cartier Cristallor Ref. 78096

Partially verified

This Cartier Cristallor, reference 78096, is a manual-winding wristwatch from the Louis Cartier Collection, which was introduced in 1973. The object features a solid yellow gold case measuring 28mm by 34mm, characterized by a hexagonal, stepped design with hidden lugs. The timepiece is fitted with a sapphire cabochon crown. The watch has a white enamel dial with printed black Roman numeral hour indices and an inner chemin de fer minute track. Time is indicated by a pair of blued-steel sword-shaped hands. The dial bears the Cartier signature and the word "PARIS" at the six o'clock position. The timepiece is documented by the vendor as an early example of the model, consistent with the design specifications of the early 1970s.

A front-facing view of the Cartier Cristallor Ref. 78096 showing the white enamel dial and hexagonal stepped case.
A front-facing view of the Cartier Cristallor Ref. 78096 showing the white enamel dial and hexagonal stepped case. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Manual-winding wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Cartier
Reference
78096
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa the early 1970s
Source-reported place
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial

The watch features a solid yellow gold case measuring 28mm by 34mm. Its design is defined by a distinct hexagonal, stepped architecture, which incorporates hidden lugs for the strap attachment. A sapphire cabochon is set into the winding crown on the side of the case.

The dial surface is white enamel, featuring printed black Roman numerals to denote the hours. A central chemin de fer minute track borders the dial, which is further distinguished by the "PARIS" signature positioned at the base. Blued-steel sword-shaped hands are used to indicate the time.

Evidence for this section
  • “The solid yellow gold case comes in at 28mm x 34mm and features a hexagonal 'stepped' design with 'hidden' lugs, a sapphire cabochon crown”
  • “The dial inside is exactly what you'd expect to find from Cartier during this era, with a white enamel surface, printed black 'Roman' indices with an inner chemin de fer minute track. Of course, everything is tied together with a blued-steel 'sword' handset.”

Model History and Dating

The Cristallor model was officially introduced in 1973 as part of the Louis Cartier Collection. It was produced in various configurations throughout its lifespan, involving different metals, sizes, and movement types.

The specific piece provided for reference is identified as an early example originating from approximately the early 1970s.

Evidence for this section
  • “Introduced in 1973 as a part of the Louis Cartier Collection”
  • “The piece that we have here is an early example from circa the early 1970s.”

Movement and Functionality

The timepiece is powered by a manual-winding movement contained within the yellow gold case. This mechanism serves as the primary timekeeping element of the watch.

The movement is housed inside the hexagonal case, operating in conjunction with the sapphire cabochon crown for adjustment and winding.

Evidence for this section
  • “a manual-winding movement within.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber used in the reference 78096 Cristallor?
  • Does the case back contain hallmarking indicating the specific year of production?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Cartier Cristallor Ref. 78096
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerCartier“Cartier's catalog is full of pieces”
ModelCristallor“the Cristallor is a textbook example of one such model.”
Reference78096“Cartier Cristallor Ref. 78096”
Case MaterialYellow gold“The solid yellow gold case”
Case Dimensions28mm x 34mm“comes in at 28mm x 34mm”
DialWhite enamel“with a white enamel surface”
Movement TypeManual-winding“a manual-winding movement within.”
Introduction Date1973“Introduced in 1973 as a part of the Louis Cartier Collection”

Visible details

  • Hexagonal stepped case construction
  • Hidden lug configuration
  • Blued-steel sword hands
  • White enamel dial with Paris signature

Research qualifications

  • Movement caliber and specific production serial numbers are not specified in the source
  • The exact year of manufacture is described only as circa the early 1970s

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Cartier Cristallor رفرنس 78096

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 48d17619e2

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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