TheTonneauis a prime example of Cartiers historic ability to create elegant, refined timepieces, while remaining faithful to its core design principles.The Tonneauwatch was re-introduced by in 2019, at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), intwodiffering case-metals: platinum and pink gold, with single and dual-time models available. Each bears its own vintage-inspired dial, with the platinumwatch being the only one to belimited to just 100 pieces.

History of the Tonneau

TheTonneau isCartiers second-oldest wristwatch, having been created in 1906 (two years after thefirst square Santos appeared).Withits unmistakable DNA and Cartiers timeless style, thereference'selongated case and elegant curves, quickly became a classic. Vintage executions of the Tonneauwere made in extremely limited numbers, and examples that remain in original condition come up for public sale infrequently, making themas elusive, as they are attractive.

Over the lifetime of the brand, Cartier watches have come to embody a sense of refinement and understatement. As Cartier expert and scholar Harry Fane recounts in his ,

"I think that these wristwatches that Cartier made encapsulate everything that Louis Cartier was trying to say. He wanted something beautiful and elegant and those were the only two criteria he had. I think that he succeeded superbly."

The design 113 years later

Cased in platinum, the Tonneauis similar in proportion to the ,measuring 46.1mm by 26.2mm. Curved and measuring just 8.8mm thick, the Tonneauserves as an elegant dress watch, fitting perfectly beneath the cuff.It hugs the wrist, in a way that is both supremely comfortable, yet distinctively elegant and characterful.The platinum variant applies a finishing touch, in the form of a ruby cabochon, set in the beaded crown. This particular watch (No. 07X/100) comes onits original Cartier-signed, semi-matte, grey alligator strap, with matching platinum tang buckle.

Beneath the curved mineral crystal, the dial is heavily inspired by vintage Cartier, with a lightly-grained, grey dial, accented by tone-on-tone print on the minute track. The printed Roman numerals complete the dial, adding further tonal highlights.The overall restrainedstyling, combined with the slightly ornate Romannumerals, creates anelegantbalance.Above the dial, the sword-hands are blued steel, adding a nice touch of contrast to the watch.

The movement

On the reverse, beneath a solid, satin-brushed case-back, the manually-wound Calibre 1917MC is found, which beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a 38-hour power reserve.

The set

The combination of an iconic, classic Cartierdesign, in the brand's most coveted metal, explainsthe appealof this limited edition Tonneau.It is accompanied by its original box and guarantee card.

Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.

Closer look