Cartier Ceinture 'Paris' Onyx Diamond

No, it’s not a Tank. And yes, it deserves your attention! While Parisian jeweler to the stars Cartier may be best known in horological circles for its famed Tank watch, the French firm produced — and continues to produce — numerous other models that deserve equal billing for their unique and sumptuous designs. The Louis Cartier collection, announced by Cartier Paris in 1973, constituted a redesign of the maison’s watch offerings. Fresh takes on classics such as the Tank and Santos Dumont were accompanied by new designs, including that of pieces like the Ellipse, the Tonneau, the Ceinture, and more. This particular Ceinture, a playful departure from the rectangular Tank, dates to the late 1970s. Housed in a Paris-signed 25mm 18K yellow gold octagonal case with a shrouded winding crown, this lovely piece features an acrylic crystal, a white 'Paris' dial with printed Roman indices and 'railroad' minute track, and a matching, blued-steel handset. Powered by a hand-wound movement, it combines classic Cartier appeal with modern geometric appeal. The crowning jewel of this piece is its onyx inlaid bezel and factory set diamonds on the midcoast --- a unique feature present on a subset of the Ceinture pieces. Everyone knows the Tank. This is your chance to own its lesser-known but arguably more compelling sibling!