Renowned for their expertise in jewelry making, Cartier has long catered to aficionados of delicate and refined timepieces. This legacy is evident in their range of smaller-sized watches, designed for those who prefer an air of understated elegance. Yet, in a testament to their versatility and understanding of diverse consumer preferences, Cartier also ventures into the realm of larger watch models. Large Cartier watches are crafted for individuals who seek a more pronounced statement piece, marrying Cartier’s signature elegance with a bolder presence on the wrist.
The larger Cartier watches are not just about size; they are a blend of distinctive design, meticulous craftsmanship, and a rich history that dates back over a century. These timepieces stand out with their generous case sizes, yet they retain the refined aesthetics and exceptional quality that Cartier is celebrated for. From the classic sophistication of their dials to the luxurious finish of their straps, each element is a testament to Cartier’s commitment to excellence in watchmaking.
Let’s explore Cartier collections that offer larger case sizes:
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Cartier Roadster
Launched in 2001, the Cartier Roadster is a testament to Cartier’s innovative design, drawing inspiration from the automotive elegance of the 1950s Porsche 356. This line uniquely combines Cartier’s traditional elegance with a modern, sporty flair. The Roadster features several of Cartier’s signature design elements: a silver dial, prominent black Roman numerals, a hidden brand signature, a crown adorned with sapphire or spinel, and the Cartier signature on the case back. Its distinctive barrel-shaped design with curved sides makes it unmistakably Cartier.
Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, with the women’s models optionally adorned with diamonds, the Roadster catered to a diverse clientele. It was offered in various materials including stainless steel and gold, and boasted functionalities like GMT. Despite its discontinuation in 2011, the Roadster remains a cherished piece in the pre-owned market, celebrated for its unique blend of classic elegance and automotive-inspired aesthetics.
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Calibre de Cartier
Introduced in 2010, the Calibre de Cartier marked a significant milestone for Cartier as the brand’s first widely produced sports watch featuring an in-house movement. This model signified Cartier’s transition into crafting robust, functional sports watches, putting it on par with other prestigious watchmakers.
The Calibre de Cartier is celebrated for its masculine design, large and solid case, curved lugs for comfort, a legible dial with sword-shaped hands, Roman numeral and baton indices, and a unique railroad pattern on the outer rim for a vintage feel.
The Calibre was available in 42mm size, in stainless steel or pink gold, and was complemented by cushioned leather straps in various neutral colors. Cartier expanded the line with models featuring metal bracelets and various dial colors.
In 2012, the Calibre Chronograph was introduced, adding a chronograph complication, with a dual sub-dial design and a tachymeter on the bezel. 2013 then saw the release of the Calibre de Cartier Diver, Cartier’s first proper diving watch, boasting ISO 6425 compliance and water resistance up to 300 meters.
The collection was further diversified in 2015 with the Calibre de Cartier 38, a smaller variant featuring a modified dial layout suitable for its size.
Despite ceasing production in 2018, the Calibre de Cartier remains a versatile and sought-after collection among watch collectors and enthusiasts, known for its blend of elegance, functionality, and innovation in watchmaking.
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Cartier Tank MC
The Cartier Tank MC, introduced in 2013, represents a modern and masculine evolution of the classic Cartier Tank design. Known for its elegant, pure lines inspired by World War I armory, the original Tank design has been a staple of fashion, royalty, and collectors since the 20th century. The Tank MC variant brought a sportier edge to this legacy, featuring a larger size (34.3mm wide, 44mm tall, and 9.5mm thick) that offers a significant wrist presence without being overpowering.
Retaining the classic Cartier character with its flinqué dial, Roman numerals, and blue spinel cabochon, the Tank MC introduces thicker side flanks and a more-square-than-usual case. The design also allows for a variety of dial colors and the choice between stainless steel and 18k rose gold. The dial’s masculine touch is further accentuated by a sub-seconds complication at 6 o’clock.
A significant feature of the Tank MC is its in-house movement, the 1904 MC automatic caliber, which operates at 4 Hz and offers a 48-hour power reserve. This movement was previously exclusive to the Calibre de Cartier collection. The Tank MC line also includes models with chronograph and skeleton dial versions, with the latter featuring open-worked numerals and a 9611 MC caliber, a manual-wind movement with a 72-hour power reserve.
With its modern dimensions, design, and movement, the Cartier Tank MC stands out as a bold choice for watch enthusiasts seeking a contemporary and robust timepiece.
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Cartier Rotonde
The Cartier Rotonde collection was introduced in 2006, with a classic round case that showcases the Maison’s most sophisticated movements. Today’s Rotonde collection offers a wide range of complications, from the chronograph and GMT to the minute repeater and grande complication.
With cases measuring from 40 to 42mm, the Rotonde range offers the wearer maximum presence on the wrist, while retaining the maison’s signature timeless design with some fine watchmaking chops. The dials, showcasing Cartier’s iconic Roman numerals and signature type, are enhanced by sunray and guilloche patterns.
The Rotonde’s elegant aesthetics are made more evident in its blued stainless-steel hands, including a slim, needle-like hand for seconds, and Breguet-style hour and minute hands. The case design combines sportiness and elegance, with a pointed blue spinel cabochon on the crown and large push-pieces. Cartier Rotonde watches are complemented by high-quality leather straps with deployant buckles, adding to their comfort and luxury appeal.
The Rotonde de Cartier Range encapsulates Cartier’s mastery in creating timepieces that are both technically proficient and aesthetically pleasing, a true symbol of the brand’s identity in fine watchmaking.
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Final Thoughts
Cartier’s foray into larger watches, through models like the Roadster, Calibre de Cartier, Tank MC, and Rotonde de Cartier, demonstrates their exceptional ability to blend traditional elegance with modern functionality.
Each model brings its unique character, from the Roadster’s automotive-inspired design to the sophisticated horology of the Rotonde de Cartier. The Tank MC and Calibre de Cartier stand as testaments to Cartier’s versatility, offering robust yet refined choices for enthusiasts.
These watches continue to captivate collectors and casual wearers alike, particularly in the pre-owned market. SwissWatchExpo’s selection of these large Cartier watches offers a glimpse into the enduring appeal and legacy of Cartier’s timepieces, highlighting their significance in the world of luxury watchmaking.
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