My days of eager anticipation were brought to a close today, when I picked up my new Cartier. Ever since my good friend Ian got his Santos Galbee (a few short weeks ago) and I examined it closely, I have done a lot of research on Cartier watches. The relatively new model Calibre de Cartier interested me even more when I went to try it on. Two weeks later, I am a proud owner.
When Cartier says that this is a watch they specially designed for men, they meant it. Even at 42mm, which is not large by today's standards, it wears a lot bigger, at least to me ( although I have been wearing my 36mm Rolex Explorer and my 34mm Air-King for some time now). With the crown guards, it probably comes in at about 45mm, which is the same as the two Breitling Seawolfs I owned. I would liken it to about the size of the Breitling Super Avenger, just not as thick a case. This feels larger in a sense, but it hugs my wrist a lot better. Matter of fact, it almost grabs my wrist like it doesn't want to let go, and feels like it doesn't even need a strap or bracelet to hold it down.
I don't mind saying, it is one gorgeous piece of jewellery. I always find it very fitting to say that a timepiece is the ultimate form of jewellery. I am not ashamed to say that Cartier specializes in fine jewellery, and their fine watches are no exception. They do not make jewellery as a sideline to their watches, neither do they make watches as a sideline to their jewellery. They make fine jewellery including watches. Period.
The dial on this watch is absolutely brilliant. The oversized XII at 12 o'clock, and the large small seconds dial, which takes up almost half of the main dial, are not subtle. Neither is the rather large date window. All three of these are surrounded by a lovely silver frame, which looks dazzling in various lighting conditions.
The crystal is recessed about 1-2mm into the bezel which, as one person on another forum described it, is much like looking into a camera lense.
The bracelet is beyond compare. Especially considering that it was designed by Cartier especially for this watch. Not only does it have lug holes, which I have always wanted, it has screws on each and every link to hold the bracelet together. The centre part of each link is polished, and the outsides are brushed, as are the sides. The case is all brushed, except for outside of the bezel. Only exception is the very edges of the lugs and crown guards are polished, which gives just the right amount of sparkle to the watch, without being too blingy.
I could go on and on. Unfortunately, my friend Ian was not along when I picked up the watch, so no brilliant photos. However, I did manage to get a few of my own when I got home with the watch. Hope they will give some idea of the fit and finish of this wonderful timepiece:
These pics are not really a true representation of the beauty of this watch. Next couple of weeks I hope to get some better photos.
Thanks for reading and looking
Cheers,
Carl
.