As a series of mechanical watches based on historic Cartier designs, the CPCP showed watch connoisseurs what Cartier was capable of producing at a time when the brand was more known for producing quartz-based timepieces. Most models in the CPCP were designed for the men's market and were available between 1998 and 2008 in very limited numbers using mechanical movements from external suppliers, until the Fine Watchmaking Collection?was introduced using movements developed in-house.
A reference-point in the history of modern watchmaking, the Calibre 045MC that powers the Tortue Monopoussoir, was produced by THA bauche. Founded in 1996, THA was a collaborative movement manufacture by Vianney Halter, Denis Flageollet (founder of De Bethune), and Fran?ois-Paul Journe, before their respective brands became household names. With this illustrious collection of watchmakers involved, there is little surprise that the Calibre 045MC is such a work of art, both technically and visually.
Used only for the Cartier Tortue Monopoussoir models, the Tank Monopoussoir and the De Bethune Monopoussoir, Calibre 045MC has a lever escapement and the balance beats at 21,600 A/h. Using a clutch system, the motion of the second wheel of the base movement to the chronographs central wheel in the Calibre 045MC is activated by a double swivel pin. This removes the jolt of the seconds hand that often takes place in chronographs operated by a lateral-clutch. The resulting smooth operation of the hand, gliding across the dial is as beautiful as the movement itself, highly finished and visible through an ellipse sapphire exhibition caseback.
A modern-style guilloche dial replaces the design of the original model?from 1928, with the blued-steel Breguet' style hands and large Roman numerals providing effortless Cartier elegance and a vintage feel.?The?faceted Cartier sapphire, is also now set in the octagonal winding-crown and the watch has a larger case, measuring 43x35mm, with a thickness of 10mm. This particular watch comes on its blue?Cartier-signed alligator strap with matching 18K white-gold deployant clasp.
The combination of Cartier design and the Calibre 045MC made by three of the most?respected independent watchmakers, makes this Cartier a truly special watch that holds a place in horological history.
Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.
Closer look
Brand: | Cartier |
Model: | Monopoussoir?Ref.?2714? |
Movement: | mechanical manual-winding Cal.?045MC |
Functions: | monopusher chronograph, hours, minutes, sub-seconds |
Features: | guilloche dial, display back,?blue steel hands |
Case: | 43 x 35?mm 18-carat?white gold |
Crystal: | sapphire front and back |
Bracelet: | blue?Cartier alligator strap with?white gold fold clasp |
Year: | circa 2000 |
Box & papers: | N/A |