Cartier Tonneau - 1980s

The Cartier Tonneau or Cartier curves

Description

The Cartier Tonneau is unmistakable: long curved case, domed glass, unique lugs. But it is also typical Cartier : white dial with elongated Roman numerals, blued hands and of course, the cabochon.

Even if this piece comes from the 1980s, it keeps all the attributes of the first Tonneaus made in the early 1900s. It is manually wound. Paris is written high on the dial and the small signature at 6 o'clock underlines its French (and not Swiss !) roots. 

To top if off, the Cartier-green (it is not any green) strap closes with a yellow gold folding clasp.

How to wear it?

Françoise like to play with classic codes. At first glance, it is a very elegant dress watch, the Tonneau fits perfectly with a more casual outfit. Wear it with jeans, a turtleneck sweater and your outfit is done ! 

Thanks to the case curviness, the Tonneau is without a doubt the most comfortable watch Françoise has ever worn.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Even if its first iteration came early in Cartier history, the Tonneau has been forgotten for long. The contrast between its historic importance and the interest it drags, makes the Tonneau a watch for connoisseurs. 

History

The Cartier Tonneau appeared in 1906, two years after the Santos Dumont, the first wristwatch from the Maison Cartier. Though less successful than the latter, the Tonneau continues to impress with the originality of its lines.

Over the years, the Tonneau experienced subtle variations, especially in size, adapting to the tastes for larger watches.

In the 80s and 90s, the Cartier Tonneau was offered for both men and women, in gold and platinum.