29 Cartier A highly attractive and elegant,Tortue, manual wristwatch in yellow gold with pavé diamonds dial, bezel, lugs and crown, and yellow gold rigid bracelet.
Estimate: € 15.000 – 30.000
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- Model Tortue
- Year Circa 1980s
- Reference 96070
- Case Material 18K yellow gold and diamonds
- Case Number 2
- Bracelet Material 18K yellow gold and leather bracelet, aproximate length 170mm
- Movement Manual, cal. 21, 19 jewels
- Movement Number 14'169
- Dimension 23mm width x 31mm length
- Signed Case, dial and movement
In Cartier’s long and storied history, certain shapes have emerged as true signatures of the Maison’s design genius, and chief among them is the Tortue, a form first conceived by Louis Cartier in 1912 that deliberately departed from the prevailing round case and instead embraced a profile inspired by the organic curves of a tortoise shell. The present example, rendered in rich yellow gold, exemplifies how this classic architecture can be elevated into the realm of high jewellery. Rather than relying on traditional dial elements like numerals or textured finishes, Cartier here opts for a fully diamond-pavé surface that transforms the dial into a scintillating field of light. Complementing this radiant dial, the case itself is highlighted by additional brilliant-cut stones, and the crown, Cartier’s traditional octagonal profile, is finished with its own diamond cabochon, a detail that reinforces the Maison’s jewellery heritage. Together, the elongated tortoise-inspired case, fully diamond-paved dial, and richly decorated bracelet, which most likely came from the request of a tasteful client, speak to Cartier’s dual identity: a house rooted in both jewel-like artistry and timeless wristwatch design. This watch is not just a tool to measure time, but a sculptural and wearable expression of Cartier’s enduring commitment to elegance.
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MONACO
Hôtel Méridien Beach Plaza, 22 avenue Princesse Grâce
24 April - From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
25 April - From 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM