Cartier introduced the Clé de Cartier collection in 2015, debuting a curved tonneau-profile silhouette defined by its integrated winding mechanism. The name references traditional clock keys, incorporating an elongated rectangular crown set with a blue synthetic spinel that sits flush with the case flank.
This 35mm stainless steel reference features a silver flinqué dial detailed with radial guilloché engraving, blue Roman numerals, and a date aperture at six o'clock. It is driven by the manufacture Calibre 1847 MC, an automatic movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with a 42-hour power reserve.
Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier approaches horology with the perspective of a master jeweler, prioritizing form, proportion, and aesthetic purity. The Maison was a crucial pioneer of the modern wristwatch, creating the purpose-built Santos-Dumont in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont and later the iconic Tank in 1917, whose "brancards" seamlessly integrated the case and lugs into a singular design.
While historically collaborating with ebauche movement suppliers, Cartier has since invested significantly in its own manufacture capabilities in Switzerland, developing a suite of in-house calibres. The brand's enduring significance lies not in technical innovation, but in creating a portfolio of iconic case shapes that are foundational to watchmaking itself.
Overall Grade: 8 / 10 | Great Condition, Visible Wear Production: Undated Contents: Full-set Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 36mm Thickness: approx. 10mm Lug Width: approx. 16mm
Case: Stainless steel, mirrored finish, visible wear Bezel: Fixed bezel, mirrored finish, visible wear Dial: Silver flinqué dial with guilloché pattern, blue printed numerals Hands: Blued-steel sword hands
Crown: Key-style spinel crown, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, visible wear Bracelet: Multi-link bracelet with hidden clasp, visible wear Caseback: Stainless steel, exhibition caseback, screw-on, visible wear Movement: Automatic Caliber: Calibre 1847 MC