Introducing: The Cartier Priv Tonneau

November 29, 2018

In addition to releasing its main collection watches each year, Cartier has recently been launching capsule collections under the "Priv" name, with each year seeing a famous silhouette get some special treatments and reinterpretations. This year it's all about the Tonneau, that neither round nor square shape that Cartier first started using over a century ago in 1906. Ahead of SIHH 2019, Cartier is teasing two variations, the Tonneau Large (seen here) and the Tonneau XL Dual Time Skeleton.There are two Tonneau Large models, one in rose gold with a champagne dial and one in platinum with a silvered dial. Both measure up at 46.1mm long, 26.2mm wide at the center, and 8.8mm thick, meaning they're a little long and relatively thin too. They feature blued hands, applied Roman numeral indexes, and the same curved profile that helps the watch sit better on the wrist. The platinum model is a numbered edition of 100 pieces with a ruby cabochon in the crown, while the rose gold model and its sapphire cabochon are not strictly limited.? The Tonneau shape goes all the way back to 1906 at Cartier. Initial Thoughts No reason to mince words here: I'm super excited to see these pieces in the metal at SIHH in January. Last year's Priv Tank Cintre models were some of my favorite watches of SIHH and these Tonneau models look like they have the potential to be just as impressive. I'm normally not as big a fan of the Tonneau shape, finding it a bit hard to wear, but Cartier's done a great job here balancing little vintage-inspired touches like the screw-equipped lugs with dials that are very contemporary and balanced. Consider me a convert. The platinum model in particular strikes me as a near-perfect dress watch. Stay tuned C we're sure to have live photos and a lot more thoughts on these on day one of SIHH.? The Basics Brand: CartierModel: TonneauReference Number:Dimensions: 46.1mm x 26.2mmThickness: 8.8mmCase Material: Rose gold or platinumDial Color: Champagne or silveredIndexes: Applied Roman numeralsLume: NoneWater Resistance: ?Strap/Bracelet: Brown or grey alligator strap with Cartier folding buckle? The applied numerals give the dial tons of depth and richness. There's something bold and timeless about the Tonneau shape. The Movement Caliber: In-House Caliber 1917 MCFunctions: Hours, minutesDimensions: 16mm x 12.9mm Thickness: 2.9mmPower Reserve: 38 hoursWinding: ManualFrequency: 3.5 Hz (21,600 vph)Jewels: 19 The Tonneau has a sleek curved profile. Pricing & Availability Price: $22,400 (rose gold); $26,200 (platinum) C Prices are subject to change at SIHH 2019Availability: 2019Limited Edition: Platinum model limited to 100 numbered piecesFor more click here.