There is something very special about Cartier's Mysterious Hours watches and at the SIHH 2018 we were blown away by the new Rotonde de Cartier Skeleton Mysterious Double Tourbillon with the tourbillon appearing to be suspended in mid-air with no connection to the rest of the movement —a clever optical illusion created by Cartier. This new watch cased in a 45 mm platinum case with all of its components hand-finished —including the movement bridges being chamfered, flanks drawn and screw heads polished— is simply gorgeous and one of our favorite watches at the SIHH this year.
The biggest difference between any previous iteration of this watch and the new model, is that this time Cartier decided to add skeletonized bridges in the shape of Roman numerals to enhance the lightness, transparency and power of the watch.
About the Watch
The double flying tourbillon completes a rotation in 60 seconds, while the tourbillon cage performs a second rotation in which each round takes 5 minutes. This balancing act is all the more formidable in view of the finely constructed case and painstaking craftsmanship. The magic of the mysterious is encased in the transparency of the skeleton. The curves of the watch and mysterious movement are complemented by the stark geometric openwork architecture of the skeletonized bridges. The blued sword shaped hands rise in all glory against the skeletonized background to provide optimal readability of the time.
The 45 mm platinum case is highly polished throughout and the beaded platinum crown is set with a black sapphire cabochon. The watch is delivered on a dark blue alligator strap with 18K white gold folding clasp. Additionally, the watch is water resistant to 30 meters but who in its right mind would dare to do so.
The Movement
The Rotonde de Cartier Skeleton Mysterious Double Tourbillon is powered by the manual wound in-house calibre 9465 MC composed of 286 parts and 26 jewels and which beats at a frequency of 21,600 vph to provide a power reserve of 52 hours when fully wound. This exceptional movement is fully visible via the display case back and is a real treat for the eyes.
On the Wrist & Pricing
The Rotonde de Cartier Skeleton Mysterious Double Tourbillon is available in a limited edition of only 30 pieces that are individually numbered. This watch is also available in platinum with bezel pavéed with baguette-cut diamonds.
Sticker Price $216,000 USD and $530,000 USD for the one with baguette-cut diamonds. For more info on Cartier click here.
