Cartier Tonneau Lady - c. 1980

The Forgotten Ancestor

Description

Some will call it the Cartier Tortue, others the Cartier Tonneau. It's actually the Tonneau model, a feminine version from the 1980s. You have to look closely at the case's lines: unlike the Tortue, the Cartier Tonneau's lugs, at the end of the case, are not straight but retain the curve of the case. On the other hand, the shape of the dial, which could be likened to a "cut oval," remains very similar.

The Cartier Tonneau Lady thus offers a design that is entirely feminine, neither round nor oval. Although its case is slightly thicker than the rest of Cartier's "classic" selection, its compact diameter makes this model a discreet piece.

An 18-carat yellow gold watch mounted on its Cartier burgundy alligator leather strap and its signed 18-carat yellow gold pin buckle.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Françoise particularly likes the in-between of her design: between the severity of a tank, and the femininity of a Baignoire.

The Cartier Tonneau Lady is as much an original watch in its shape and design as it is a discreet and elegant one. A watch that is perhaps too forgotten but deserves to be revived!

History

The Cartier Tonneau appeared in 1906, two years after the Santos Dumont, the first wristwatch from the Maison Cartier. Although less successful than its predecessor, the Tonneau continues to impress with its original lines.

The first model was designed for a man's wrist, with relatively small dimensions, as was fashionable. Over the years, it underwent subtle variations, particularly in terms of size, adapting to the tastes of larger men's watches.

In the 80s and 90s, the Cartier Tonneau was available for both men and women, in gold and platinum, with a simple case or one paved with diamonds.