Cartier “Bebe Guillotine” Shutter Watch

Description

Offered here is a spectacular, rare, and interesting Cartier “Bebe Guillotine” Shutter purse watch, circa 1930s. The shutter system was designed by Edmond Jaeger in 1909 and refined in the 1920s, mainly used for “purse” watches, so that they could rummage around a bag and the crystal would not be scuffed up. However, in the early 1930s, Cartier London ordered an alleged 50 watches (although likely less, based on how many have surfaced publicly over the years, which stands at under 10) to be converted to wristwatches. These converted cases were manufactured by Georges Larmanger, a specialist in guillotine purse watch production at the time. The moniker “Bebe Guillotine” comes from old Cartier Paris logbooks, noting them as “Bracelet-Montre Bébé Guillotine”.

This exceptionally rare Cartier Bebe Guillotine was first uncovered by us in early 2024, fresh to market. The watch itself remains in incredible condition for its age, with no major wear to the case or enameling, and retaining crisp hallmarks and serial numbers throughout. Likewise, the original dial inside remains very well-preserved, with barely any wear.