Chain Reaction: The New Maillon De Cartier Puts A Fresh Twist On The Classic Chain Link

Only a select few can take the mundane and turn it into magic. But that is exactly what Cartier has done with the latest addition to its horological repertoire. The new Maillon de Cartier puts a twist (literally) on the dime a dozen chain link and transforms the motif into a series of timepieces that are as singular as they are sumptuous.

Elongated links of 18-karat gold are offset and aligned on a bias to create a kinetic yet sensuous bracelet, at once edgy and elegant. A hexagonal dial allows case and chain to intertwine in one seamless motion, deftly demonstrating the maison’s exceptional savoir-faire, while the signature blued-steel, sword-shaped hands that circle the silvered opaline surface nod to the luxury house’s watchmaking heritage.

The Maillon de Cartier makes its debut this month in six stunning combinations of gold and precious stones. The simplest version arrives in yellow gold with a single sapphire cabochon on the crown, while rose gold and white gold variations feature brilliant-cut diamonds on the crown, bezel, case, and bracelet, with an especially opulent iteration fully encrusted with 486 gemstones. There is also a limited and numbered edition of 50 pieces in yellow gold with a black lacquer dial, set with an even more staggering total of 580 diamonds.