Cartier

Tonneau Large, reference WGTN0005

 A limited edition N°070/100 platinum wristwatch

Circa 2019

Created in 1906, the Tonneau is one of first wristwatches ever designed. It is the second oldest watch that was given a name, after another creation of Cartier, the Santos, in 1904.

At the 2019 edition of the SIHH, Cartier unveiled its contemporary interpretation of the Tonneau. The watch was presented in two versions, the normal production in pink gold and an exclusive, limited edition in platinum, to which the present timepiece belongs.

This new watch is called the Tonneau Large, highlighting its generous proportions. Its dimensions preserve the timeless elegance of the design while conferring a contemporary character. The 8mm thick case is slightly curved, ensuring an unparalleled comfort on the wrist. This curved profile of the case further enhances the impeccable sophistication of the timepiece. The case is crowned by a ruby cabochon cunningly underlining the use of platinum.

In the same effort, the dial conserves the stylistic codes of the original model with the elongated Roman numerals, the inner minute track and the blued-steel Breguet hands. The contemporary touch is brought by the use of the grey dial with soleil finish and the light grey Cartier and Swiss signatures, the minute track and darker grey Roman numerals. This palette of grey shades catches the light and creates endless attractive variations depending on the angle.

The watch is powered by the mechanical in-house calibre 1917MC developing 38 hours of power reserve.

The Tonneau Large is the inaugural model of the newly created Cartier Privé collection. The new line marks the return of the high-end mechanical timepieces celebrating the iconic designs of the Maison. It reminds the ‘CPCP’ (Collection Privée Cartier Paris (CPCP) line that was produced for 10 years, between 1998 and 2008. Pieces produced under these labels, including the present watch, are the most celebrated and sought-after watches by collectors. The Tonneau Large pays also homage to the Tonneau models created under the CPCP such as the references 2802 and 2803.

Demonstrating the importance of the model, the Tonneau was also re-issued in 1991, alongside the Crash and the Basculante in the “pre CPCP” collection.

Whether it is through its design or its components, the Tonneau Large embodies the finest quality and Cartier at its very best.

The limited edition platinum version was sold out nearly instantly and very rarely appears on the second hand market. They belong to distinguished collectors who preciously look after them.

This example is presented in very attractive condition and comes complete with its original accessories.