SIHH 2016: Introducing The Drive de Cartier Collection

Just one year after the launch of Clé de Cartier at the SIHH 2015, Cartier does it again with the introduction this year of a totally new collection: “Drive de Cartier” inspired by the stylish lines, curves and characteristics of motor car aesthetics.

From the outset, it is visibly a Cartier watch: the bold Roman numerals, the blued steel sword-shaped hands, the guilloché dial, and the blue sapphire on the winding crown are instantly recognizable. And when we pick it up, its form is irresistible to the touch, with a tactile appeal similar to that of the Ballon Bleu. But make no mistake: the Drive de Cartier brings a whole new dimension to Cartier watches, starting with its 40mm x 41mm cushion-shaped case and domed sapphire crystal. Incorporating references from the world of automobiles, the patterning of the guilloche dial resembles the design of a radiator grill, the crown is shaped like a bolt, and a small-seconds counter at 6 o’clock would be at home on the smartest of dashboards, completing the strongly defined yet easy-to-get-along-with character of this new collection made for men.

The case, in18-carat pink gold or steel, fitted with a brass black, grey, or white guilloche dial, features a transparent case-back to reveal the Cartier Manufacture movement 1904 MC with fine finishing that includes “Côtes de Genève” decoration on the bridges and oscillating weight, and polished screw-heads.

Created in 2010, the 1904 MC movement is available in two self-winding mechanical versions. The first is the calibre 1904-PS MC with functions of hours, minutes, small seconds, and date, while the second — calibre 1904-FU MC for small complications – moves the hours, minutes, small seconds, large date, a second time zone and day/night indicator. Water resistant to 30 meters.

The new collection also includes a Fine Watchmaking version, with a third Manufacture movement: the manual-winding 9452 MC, to power the Drive de Cartier Flying Tourbillon watch certified “Poinçon de Genève”.

Black or brown alligator leather straps with pink gold or steel deployment buckles complete the refined and assertive look of these timepieces that can accompany your wrist at any time of the day.

Prices including taxes, with any dial:
1904-PS stainless steel 6,000€. Pink gold 18,600€.
1904-FU Second Time Zone stainless steel 8,400€. Pink gold 21,900€.
Flying Tourbillon pink gold 86,500€.

Available from May 2016.

Photo Credit: Haute Time. For more information, please visit the official Cartier website. Follow Haute Time on Instagram to catch all of the new releases as they happen.