Important Watches: Part I
Important Watches: Part I
Cartier
'Cartier d'art' Tortue, Ref. 2496 Limited edition yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonné enamel dial depicting a dragon Circa 2004 | 卡地亞 | 2496型號「'Cartier d'art' Tortue」限量版黃金腕錶備掐絲琺瑯錶盤，年份約2004
Auction Closed
May 10, 11:59 AM GMT
Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Cartier
'Cartier d'art' Tortue, Ref. 2496
Limited edition yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonné enamel dial depicting a dragon
Circa 2004
卡地亞
2496型號「'Cartier d'art' Tortue」限量版黃金腕錶備掐絲琺瑯錶盤，年份約2004
Dial: cloisonné enamel depicting a dragon
Calibre: cal. 430MC manual winding, 18 jewels
Case: 18k yellow gold, sapphire crystal display back secured by 8 screws
Case number: 1/20
Closure: 18k yellow gold Cartier deployant clasp
Dimensions: 34 x 43 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: none
Cartier Tortue was personally designed by Louis Cartier and developed in 1912. The tortoise-inspired case design stood out from the predominantly round cases of the competition at the time and has become an iconic model for the brand.
This very unique looking watch is a limited edition and features an intricately executed cloisonné enamel dial and champlevé case. This watch is limited to only 20 pieces produced, which makes it extremely rare. This timepiece also features a dragon motif. The dragon motif is a typical and important depiction in Asian culture, which often symbolizes power, strength and luck.
This very special piece is the first of its series and bears the number 1/20.