As 2013 came to an end, the brand introduced four timepieces that will take 2014 by storm. One of those spectacular timepieces is the Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire, a perpetual calendar tourbillon, and a stunning piece. The other pieces are the Earth Moon (a unique moon phase design), the Tank Two Tone Skeleton (an updated version of the current Santos 100), and a Caliber diving watch.
The perpetual calendar timepiece is a creative endeavor for the brand, utilizing the Caliber 9459 MC, designed in house. This exciting new piece features a 45 mm x 15.7 mm platinum case, the concentric perpetual calendar that is exquisitely marked with blue brackets. The rotating aperture displays the day/date/month and the leap year indicator is located on the back of the watch, on one of the movement bridges.
Displayed in grand fashion in the center is the flying tourbillon featuring the brand “C”. The crown is used to set the calendar functions, all except for the day, a pusher is used to advance that feature. The brand expert said the Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire is developed that way because day and date must have separate mechanisms, they can not be synchronized. This piece’s movement is using an innovative star wheel driven system, allowing for a grandiose 80 percent gain in overall chronometric consistency.
The mechanism developed strategically in house is almost completely free from the classic levers and springs, it is designed to be controlled by gears, in this case a very highly crafted set, nicknamed “the Brain”. The highly durable mechnism allows for adjustments backward and forward, and is comprised of 382 components, with 51 jewels. This masterpiece design is art in its finest form.
The Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire has more than just artistic design, and technological brilliance, it is also a luxury timepiece that is crafted in platinum and a blue cabochon at the top of the crown that sits as the brand signature. Finished off with a elegant black alligator strap and a striking 18k white gold buckle.
Bearing the highly recognized Poincon de Geneve, the timepieces also have the movement and case individually numbered and they feature a 50-hour power reserve. The limited edition piece is being produced in a quantity of 100 pieces, and will be officially introduced at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie.
