Cartier Tortue 'MOP'

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, the French firm produced — and continues to produce — numerous other watch models that deserve equal billing for their unique and sumptuous designs. Conceived in the 1920s, the Cartier Torture featured an entirely different silhouette than that of the more traditional Tank. While the Tank collection grew to include a number of shapes — Française, Louis, Cintrée or Bassculante, just to name a few — the Tortue stood out with its sensuous curves that lent themselves well to many different watches, from time-only models to more involved complications. This example, a Reference 6603, is housed in an 18K yellow gold tonneau-shaped case with a cabochon-set crown, a diamond bezel, a sapphire crystal, and a striking mother of pearl dial with a sunrise pattern on it. Visual intrigue continues to the multi link bracelet, which plays into the broader motif of the piece with diamonds on the extremes of each lug. This piece is powered by a hand wound movement, this svelte Tortue is a beautiful alternative to the Tank — and the perfect cocktail watch. If you are looking for a high jewelry piece that exemplifies both Cartier's mastery of watchmaking and jewelry design, this is an excellent option for you--- one you are unlikely to see elsewhere.