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Model Name:

Reference:

Cartier Tortue 18k W1556362

W1556362

Country

France

Current Rating

2311

Rating Implied Value ($)

$

14000

Expected Rating Based on Price

2311

Rating Alpha

0

Price ($)

$

14000

Date Added:

Oct 19, 2024

# Times Rated

0

Watch Description

The Tortue watch, a tortoise-inspired shape, was a groundbreaking design that went on to become a classic. Mechanical movement with manual winding, Cartier caliber 430 MC. Medium model in solid 18k rose gold case and brown Leather Strap with Pattern. Silvered guilloche dial with sunray effect, blued-steel sword-shaped hands. Octagonal crown set with a faceted sapphire. Case dimensions: 39mm x 31mm. Case thickness: 8.6mm. Water resistant to 30 meters/100 feet.

31

39

8.6

30

Gold (18k)

Avante Garde

Sapphire

Manual

caliber 430 MC

36

Silver

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A.I. WatchMetrics Review:

9.0

### Cartier Tortue 18k W1556362 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics

 

**Overall Watch Rating: 9.0/10.0**

- **Brand**: 9.5

- **History & Innovation**: 9.0

- **Rarity**: 9.0

- **Material**: 9.3

- **Movement**: 8.7

- **Complications**: 7.8

- **Functions**: 8.5

- **Versatility**: 8.2

- **Dials & Design**: 9.5

 

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### Summary:

The Cartier Tortue 18k W1556362 is a luxury dress watch steeped in Cartier’s timeless design philosophy. The Tortue, introduced in 1912, is one of Cartier’s iconic case shapes, alongside the Tank and Santos. The elegant and slightly curved tortoise-shaped case in 18k gold highlights Cartier’s mastery of case design, while the clean Roman numeral dial and blued steel hands offer a classic aesthetic. This watch is intended for collectors who appreciate understated luxury, historical significance, and refined craftsmanship.

 

This particular model features a hand-wound mechanical movement, which complements the elegance and purity of its design. While it lacks extensive complications, the Tortue is a statement piece for formal occasions, embodying classic horological artistry.

 

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### Metric Breakdown with Weightings:

 

#### Brand (11.1% Weight): 9.5/10

**Explanation**: Cartier is one of the most prestigious luxury brands, with a long history of watchmaking innovations and a reputation for elegance. The Tortue, in particular, is an iconic Cartier design, adding extra prestige to this model. Cartier's influence in both jewelry and horology strengthens its brand recognition and legacy.

 

#### History & Innovation (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10

**Explanation**: The Cartier Tortue has historical significance, having been part of Cartier’s lineup since the early 20th century. The design is classic, and while it doesn't feature groundbreaking complications, its enduring shape is a testament to Cartier's innovative case designs. Cartier’s ability to blend form and function remains unparalleled in the luxury watch world.

 

#### Rarity (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10

**Explanation**: This 18k gold version of the Tortue is relatively rare compared to Cartier's more common models, such as the Tank and Ballon Bleu. It is more likely to be sought after by collectors of haute horlogerie, especially due to its precious metal case and limited production numbers. Although not a limited edition, its exclusivity lies in its price point and craftsmanship.

 

#### Material (11.1% Weight): 9.3/10

**Explanation**: The 18k gold case adds significant value and elegance to the watch. Cartier's finishing is top-tier, and the choice of precious metal elevates its status as a luxury timepiece. This score reflects the high material depth, though the lack of additional materials such as platinum or exotic materials holds it back from scoring higher.

 

#### Movement (11.1% Weight): 8.7/10

**Explanation**: The hand-wound mechanical movement inside the Tortue is reliable and fitting for a dress watch, but it is relatively simple compared to high-end in-house movements from other brands. Cartier is not known for in-house complications in their classic pieces like the Tortue, but the movement is beautifully finished and complements the overall aesthetic of the watch.

 

#### Complications (11.1% Weight): 7.8/10

**Explanation**: The Tortue keeps things minimal, with a simple time-only display. It lacks complications like a date or moonphase, which are common in luxury dress watches. However, its strength lies in the simplicity and purity of its design, catering to collectors who appreciate clean lines and timeless elegance rather than mechanical complexity.

 

#### Functions (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10

**Explanation**: As a dress watch, the Tortue doesn’t need extensive functionality. However, it is highly legible with classic Roman numerals and blue steel hands. The water resistance is minimal, and it doesn't offer features like a date or chronograph, but these omissions are typical for a formal timepiece of this nature.

 

#### Versatility (11.1% Weight): 8.2/10

**Explanation**: The Cartier Tortue excels in formal and semi-formal settings. However, it is not versatile enough for casual or sporty occasions, as it is a refined dress watch. The 18k gold case also makes it more suitable for special occasions, limiting its everyday wearability in casual environments.

 

#### Dials & Design (11.1% Weight): 9.5/10

**Explanation**: The dial design is quintessential Cartier, with Roman numerals, a silvered guilloché pattern, and the iconic blued steel hands. The curved case and intricate detailing make the Tortue stand out as a design icon. The craftsmanship of the dial is exquisite, deserving high marks for originality and execution.

 

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### Conclusion:

The Cartier Tortue 18k W1556362 is a refined, luxurious dress watch that appeals to collectors with an appreciation for Cartier's design legacy and the simplicity of a classic hand-wound movement. While it lacks technical complications, its beauty lies in its case shape, precious materials, and historical significance. Ideal for formal occasions, the Tortue is a timeless choice for those who value elegance and understated luxury.

 

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**A.I. WatchMetrics Review v.7.2**

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