Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier
A rounded, pebble-shaped case with the crown guarded by an arch and set with a blue synthetic spinel or sapphire cabochon. Made in 28mm, 33mm, 36mm, 40mm and 42mm sizes, in steel, two-tone and solid gold.
Introduced
2007
Typical UK second-hand price
£2,500–£8,000 steel; £10,000–£35,000+ gold
Key references
| Reference | Notes |
|---|---|
| W69012Z4 | 36mm steel automatic, silvered guilloché dial — the most traded size. |
| W69011Z4 | 42mm steel automatic. |
| WSBB0025 | 40mm steel automatic (newer reference style). |
| W69010Z4 | 33mm steel quartz. |
| W69007Z3 | 28mm steel quartz. |
| W2BB0002 / W6920033 | Two-tone steel and gold. |
| WE9006Z3 / WJBB0006 | Diamond-set and solid gold versions. |
Collectible versions
Solid gold and factory diamond-set models hold value best. Steel models are popular but plentiful, so condition and full set matter.
What to check before buying
- Quartz models (28mm and 33mm) should tick once a second; automatics sweep. Check the caseback says which.
- The crown cabochon should be deep blue and smooth, sitting neatly inside the guard.
- Ask whether diamonds are factory-set — aftermarket diamonds greatly reduce value.
- Ask for the serial and reference numbers privately, never in public photos.
- Compare the dial, hands and bezel with official reference photos for that exact reference.
- Ask for the most recent service receipt and who carried it out.
- View in person where possible, or have an independent watchmaker inspect it before paying.
Serial number on Cartier: Engraved on the caseback.
Other Cartier models
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