1946 Cartier ‘Montre Ronde A Escalier’

Why This Watch Matters

This vintage Cartier shows that the brand made amazingly beautiful watches besides the Tank.

The Full Story

While the Tank remains the ubiquitous reference from Cartier, the company explored many other shapes, from the tonneau to the parallelogram to the circle. This example from 1946 gives a very interesting interpretation of the original ronde a pattes ("round with lugs") design introduced in 1910, since the lugs are concealed here. The stepped bezel explains its name among Cartier collectors, “Montre Ronde A Escalier," directly translated to "round watch with steps" in English. This model can also be seen as an inspiration for the late Vendome line launched in the 1970s, really showing the continuity of inspiration at Cartier. This particular example is perfect for your next dressy occasion.

The Fine Print

Maker: Cartier
Model: “Ronde A Escalier”
Reference: NA
Year: Circa 1946
Case No: 34171
Material: 18k yellow gold
Dimensions: 30mm diameter; 6mm thickness
Sapphire Crystal: No
Lume: No
Caliber: Manual wound caliber from European Watch And Clock Co.
Bracelet/Strap: Unsigned calfskin strap
Lug Width: 16mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The 18k yellow-gold case of this watch has been well preserved, especially the stepped bezel, which shows only superficial oxidation. The dial shows a bit of aging and a couple of scratches, yet it remains very legible, and with a nice configuration of alternating painted indexes and numerals. The movement is one of the more desirable calibers from European Watch & Clock Co., and bears the relevant American export code (EXU). Note that this very watch was sold at auction in the past.