This incredible timepiece is a rare testament to the design and watchmaking proficiency of Cartier during the first half of the past century. It is a well accepted reality that Cartier’s design department gifted the horological world with some of the most iconic and everlasting timepieces ever drawn - since the very beginning actually, with - for example - the inception of the Tank in 1917.

The present Tortue design is in fact even earlier than the Tank, having been introduced in 1912. It will however take 15 years for this single-button chronograph variation to be presented, in 1927.

This watch proves that in some very exclusive pieces, the design mastery of Cartier was coupled with the most refined watchmaking skills. The heart of this exquisite chronograph is a superbly executed movement signed by European Watch & Clock Co. and based on a Victorin Piguet ébauche. Very few pieces were made, of which only an even smaller fraction is known to the collectors’ community today.

Cartier dials are notoriously sensitive to ageing, thus it often happens that some degree of restoration is to be found on such dials. In this exceptional instance, the dial is instead absolutely unrestored, with all the graphics present and perfectly preserved. The strong patina that has developed with age is proof of the absolute honesty of the timepiece, and enhances the vintage vibe of this phenomenal watch.