Along with seven other new models that were presented by Cartier at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie SIHH 2015 in Geneva, this exceptional complication was also unveiled. The new Rotonde de Cartier Grande Complication Skeleton ref. W1556251 showcases one of the most sophisticated movements in fine watchmaking with a perpetual calendar, a flying tourbillon and a minute repeater all housed in a generous and elegant 45 mm platinum case. Fitted with a pusher instead of a lever to activate the minute repeater mechanism, the new Rotonde de Cartier Grande Complication Skeleton is definitely one of the watches that takes the central stage at the SIHH this year. The Rotonde de Cartier Grande Complication watch is an incredible feat of watchmaking. 578 components, 5 years of development, 15 weeks of production at the Manufacture, 10 weeks of decorating and finishing and 5 weeks of assembly. The result is measured in millimeters. A thickness of 5.49 mm for a self-winding mechanical movement that brings together three of the most prestigious fine watchmaking complications: a perpetual calendar, a minute repeater and a flying tourbillon. Of all Cartier watchmaking creations, this timepiece is the most complex.
Fitted with a skeletonized dial with a flying tourbillon at 12, its highly polished hammers at 6 and its finely tuned gong around the dial, looking at this watch up close is a real treat for the eyes. To round out its elegant look and to match its iconic blued hands, the watch is fitted with a black alligator strap with double folding 18K white gold clasp.
Visible via the display case back the beating heart inside this new Rotonde de Cartier Grande Complication Skeleton is the in-house automatic calibre 9406 MC consisting of 578 parts, 47 jewels and micro-rotor. The movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 vph to provide a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.
On the wrist, the watch wears true to its size and with spectacular wrist presence thanks to its low profile and super thin case measuring only 12.6 mm in thickness considering the triple complication housed in it. The elegant look of its skeletonized dial will mesmerize you and anyone around you when wearing this watch. Now, its sticker price is not necessarily low but definitely in line with what is now Cartier's most complicated timepiece ever. The new Rotonde de Cartier Grande Complication Skeleton is only available in a limited edition of 50 pieces.
Sticker Price $620,000 USD. For more info on Cartier click here.
