Description

1990s was a defining decade for the mechanical watch industry. It had recovered from the quartz crisis and was gaining momentum again. These were the times when the watch forums, blogs and social media were non-existent. Just true connoisseurs sharing their passion for mechanical watches. Although within the small community, the interest in high-end mechanical movements could be reeked in the air.

And Cartier could smell it. In 1998, Cartier dedicated a separate division for mechanical watches, as a special collection called Collection Privée Cartier Paris (CPCP).

It comprised of some iconic models such as the Santos, Tank and Tortue, with movements manufactured by other big names within the watch industry such as JLC, Piaget, Frederique Piguet and THA Èbauche among the others. The calibers were then finished in-house by Cartier before housing them into some of its historic designs. Some pieces were made as a limited edition of 100pcs and others were a limited production of 200 – 250 timepieces.

CPCP was operational between 1998 and 2008, after which Cartier decided to dive deep into high-end in-house watchmaking dedicating a new manufacturer in 2008 called the Fine Watchmaking (FWM). It did not generate expected results and was shut down in 2018.

The present watch is a Cartier Tank Cintree 2718 limited edition of 150pcs introduced in 2004. The case is crafted in 18K yellow gold measuring 23 x 46 mm, with a thickness 6.5 mm, topped with a curved sapphire crystal. It also features a curved solid gold case back, underneath is the Cartier caliber 8780 MC self-winding movement.

The matte silver dial features black radial Arabic numerals, a railway style black inner minute track, and blued steel Breguet hands. It is special even within the CPCP collection since it is the only model to not feature a ‘Paris’ signature on the dial. The screw down winding crown is set with a cabochon sapphire and the case is water resistant upto 30 meters.

This is a gorgeous piece of Cartier’s glorious watchmaking heritage, offered on a black largescale alligator strap with an 18K yellow gold deployant buckle.

Cartier – Bio

Founded by Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847, the house of Cartier is the luxury jewellers by reference in France.
Jewellers of the royal family and their prominent entourage, they quickly acquired fame in Europe.
Later Louis Cartier gave a second life to old watchmaking traditions with pieces like the mystery clocks, gem-set watches and other flamboyant pieces.
One of their iconic models called the Santos was made in 1904 for his friend and client the aviator from Brazil, Alberto Santos-Dumont.   Followed by other successful models like the Tonneau in 1906, the Tortue in 1912 and the famous Tank in 1919 to mention few.
The brand stayed in the family until 1964 and is now owned by a Swiss watch group.