When looking at the list of attendees at Baselworld 2016, some casual observers may have wondered why there was no presence from Cartier. The reason is, of course, that they showcased their new models for 2016 at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), held in Geneva, instead.
New models from Cartier are always eagerly anticipated, especially when additions are made to their haute horlogerie collection. With that in mind, here we take a look at some of the high-end 2016 releases.
Drive de Cartier (3 Versions)
Available with either a steel or pink gold case, and a number of different color combinations on the dial, the new Drive de Cartier has a distinctive cushion-shaped case, which draws attention. The main model is powered by an in-house Cartier calibre 1904 MC movement and has both a small seconds sub-dial and a date display at 3 o’clock.
This year also sees the release of two advanced versions of the timepiece. The fine watch-making model takes its name from the flying tourbillon complication, while the other option features several complications, including a larger date display window at the 12 o’clock position and a day/night indicator between the 3 and 4 o’clock positions.
Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Earth and Moon
Introduced in 2014, the Rotonde de Cartier Earth and Moon is a 47mm high-end timepiece, which makes a bold statement. The main feature of the watch is an on-demand moon phase indicator, which is controlled by a button at the 4 o’clock position. When pressed, the disc indicates the moon phase by how much it obscures the tourbillon.
For 2016, Cartier have released a new version of the timepiece, with a pink gold case and meteorite dial, which adds to the lunar aesthetic. Meanwhile, the watch provides a second time zone indicator via a 24-hour disc which surrounds the main dial. The stunning new Rotonde de Cartier Earth and Moon has an RRP of $235,000.
Cartier Crash Skeleton (Pink Gold)
The Crash is one of the most storied models in the Cartier catalogue, having reportedly been inspired by a watch damaged in a car crash. Originally released back in 1967, the model was reintroduced in platinum last year, in limited numbers. For 2016, the brand has added a new version of the timepiece, constructed from 18k pink gold.
Equipped with a shaped Cartier calibre 9618 MC movement, the dial has a skeletonized design, while the strap is made from black leather. Typically listed as a women’s watch, the Crash nevertheless has a large, asymmetrical case measuring 45mm in length and 28mm in width, making it suitable for men who embrace their feminine side.
Calibre de Cartier Diver (Blue)
An alternative version of the manufacturer’s first ever dive watch, the new Calibre de Cartier Diver in blue is certainly one of the most eye-catching models released by the brand this year. The new design includes a beautiful blue dial, as well as a blue ceramic bezel, which is a first for Cartier.
The case itself measures 42mm in diameter and is available in a choice of either stainless steel or rose gold. Furthermore, the timepiece is powered by the in-house developed Calibre 1904, offers water resistance at depths of up to 300m and has Super-LumiNova hands and dial markers, ensuring excellent visibility in all conditions.
Panthères Et Colibri with Animated Dial
Finally, the new Panthères Et Colibri is one of the most technologically and visually impressive timepieces from any brand this year. The watch case is constructed from 18k white gold and adorned with more than 300 diamonds, while the black dial houses a panther made from white gold and a hummingbird (or ‘Colibri’) made from pink gold.
However, what makes the watch truly unique is the ingenious dial animation. When the crown is pressed, a pink gold baby panther emerges from behind the larger panther, and the hummingbird moves higher up the watch, in response. The distance that the bird travels away from the baby panther indicates the remaining power reserve.
