Cartier Tonneau Lady - c. 1980
Cartier Tonneau Lady - c. 1980
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✓ Free & insured shipping
✓ 14-day returns
✓ 1-year warranty
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Our take
Our take
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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.
Dimensions
Dimensions
Material
Material
Cartier case and pin buckle in 18-carat yellow gold. Cartier strap in burgundy alligator leather.
Usage instructions
Usage instructions
Authentication
Authentication
Every piece undergoes a two-step expert review before joining our selection.
Françoise and her team, collectors and horology enthusiasts for many years, examine it first.
Our partner watchmakers, with whom we work closely, then carry out the technical authentication.
Condition
Condition
Our photographs are true to life: taken in-house with a macro lens, they capture every detail of a piece with precision — including marks or scratches that may be less visible to the naked eye.
We never retouch a watch's condition; only the brightness of the photograph may be adjusted.
Serial numbers are removed from photographs to protect the authenticity of each piece.
Shipping
Shipping
Worldwide shipping and insurance are offered for each item upon receipt of payment.
Any customs duties and local taxes, which vary depending on the country of destination, remain your responsibility.
In Paris, hand-delivery is possible by appointment, once funds have been received.
Return and refund policy
Return and refund policy
Despite photos and descriptions that we hope are as accurate as possible, we know that the relationship with a piece of jewelry, a watch, is above all physical.
That's why we offer a 14-day return period, no questions asked, with a refund within 5 days of receiving the watch.
However, the watch must be in an aesthetic and mechanical condition similar to when it was sent.
A question?
A question?
Contact us or consult our Your questions, our answers page. A private appointment in Paris is also possible, upon request.
