Cartier Paris “Tortue” Diamond and Grosgrain Wristwatch
Representing a watchmaking milestone, this circa 1913 ladies’ “Tortue” wristwatch by Cartier Paris is composed of platinum 18K gold, and diamonds, with a silk strap. The “Tortue” tonneau-shaped case, with millegrain accents, has an off-white dial with black Roman numeral indicators, Breguet-style blued steel hands, and railroad track chapter ring, framed by a rose-cut diamond-set bezel, lugs and winding stem, and encloses a manual-wind movement signed R.A. and Cartier Paris all completed by a black silk strap and gold deployant clasp. This stylish, early Cartier wristwatch is a visionary jeweled sportswear timepiece designed under the direction of the legendary Louis Cartier, and represents a key innovative moment for wearable, jeweled timekeeping.
Item #: W-20267
Artist: Cartier, Paris
Country: France
Circa: 1913
Dimensions: Case: 18 x 18mm; Band: 6.00” interior circumference
Materials: 103 rose and old European-cut diamonds (approximate total weight 0.70 carat); Platinum; 18K gold
Signed: CARTIER on the dial, case nos. 7723, 15094, 8526, French platinum and gold assay marks; Movement signed R.A. Cartier Paris
Documentation/Literature: This original model of the Tortue, dated 1913, appears in Cartier: Jewellers Extraordinary, by Hans Nadelhoeffer, p. 274, figure 141.
Item #: W-20267
Artist: Cartier, Paris
Country: France
Circa: 1913
Dimensions: Case: 18 x 18mm; Band: 6.00” interior circumference
Materials: 103 rose and old European-cut diamonds (approximate total weight 0.70 carat); Platinum; 18K gold
Signed: CARTIER on the dial, case nos. 7723, 15094, 8526, French platinum and gold assay marks; Movement signed R.A. Cartier Paris
Documentation/Literature: This original model of the Tortue, dated 1913, appears in Cartier: Jewellers Extraordinary, by Hans Nadelhoeffer, p. 274, figure 141.