Cartier. A fine and extremely rare 18K gold tonneau-shaped single-button chronograph wristwatch with Cartier certificate of authenticity
Prospective purchasers are advised that several co… Read more
Cartier. A fine and extremely rare 18K gold tonneau-shaped single-button chronograph wristwatch with Cartier certificate of authenticity

SIGNED CARTIER, TORTUE CHRONOGRAPH MODEL, MOVEMENT SIGNED EUROPEAN WATCH AND CLOCK CO. INC., CASE NO. 2322 MANUFACTURED IN 1929

Details
Cartier. A fine and extremely rare 18K gold tonneau-shaped single-button chronograph wristwatch with Cartier certificate of authenticity
Signed Cartier, Tortue Chronograph model, movement signed European Watch and Clock Co. Inc., case no. 2322 manufactured in 1929
Mechanical movement, 25 jewels, silvered matte dial with Roman numerals, outer track calibrated for 60 units with Arabic five-minute divisions, blued steel Breguet hands, two small subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30 minute register, tonneau-shaped case, downturned lugs, back secured by four screws in the band, chronograph operated through the crown, 18K gold buckle, dial signed Cartier, case and movement signed European Watch and Clock Co. Inc.
27 mm. length
Special notice
Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

Sign in
View condition report

Lot Essay

With Cartier Certificate of Authenticity no. GE99-517 and Cartier presentation box.

The present watch is distinguished by its overall good condition. The combination of a state-of-the-art chronograph movement with the latest design of that period render this watch a highly attractive collector's piece. According to our records the Tortue single-button chronograph model was only produced in 1928 and 1929 for an overall production of around 20 examples.

The tonneau-shaped "tortue à pattes" or "turtle on legs" wristwatch was designed by Louis Cartier in 1912. The shape of the case was made to resemble a turtle, a very popular animal during this era and symbol of good fortune and longevity in many civilisations.

The first tortue model was the precursor of numerous watchmaking creations in the early 20the century. The initial watches were destined for ladies, the gentleman's version featuring a single button chronograph was available as of 1928.

The single button chronograph mechanism allows its wearer to operate all stop-watch functions via the crown - enabling the designers to achieve a most elegant and smooth line.

A similar watch is illustrated in Cartier Time Art by Jack Forster p. 39.

More from Important Watches including Property from an Important European Collection

View All
View All