The first tortue-shaped wristwatch made by Cartier goes all the way back to 1912. Sleek in profile and unusually shaped at the time, the firm released their first tortue monopusher chronograph in 1928 with its movement developed in collaboration with Edmond Jaeger and LeCoultre using European Watch and Clock Company-branded calibers. Operated through a single button in the crown, the start-stop-reset is completed all through the one button.

When the brand released the Cartier Privée Collection Paris (CPCP) in 1998, it gave the them an opportunity to update and modernise some of their most cherished, and iconic wristwatches. It was with great pride and fanfare that they reintroduced the Cartier Tortue Monopoussoir. Named “tortue à pattes” or “turtle on legs” it was a symbol of good fortune and longevity. The new watch was larger and contemporary, featuring the all-new chronograph caliber 045MC. This new movement is historic itself as it was co-developed by Vianney Halter, Denis Flageollet, and Francois-Paul Journe through their firm at the time, Techniques Horlogères Appliquées (THA).

The present example Cartier Tortue Monopoussoir CPCP in white gold is a stunningly attractive specimen of the highly sought-after model. Not only that it is well-preserved boasting an unpolished case, but it is also accompanied by its full set of accessories with a certificate that is dated and stamped by a local Hong Kong retailer. Adding to its attraction, it is further accompanied by a wooden Cartier toolbox.