Review
SJX provides an insightful look at the Rotonde de Cartier Large Date Second Time Zone, a timepiece that occupies a crucial intermediate segment within Cartier's offerings. This review details the watch's design, functionality, and movement, highlighting its position between the Fine Watchmaking line and entry-level models. SJX's analysis helps readers understand Cartier's strategy in developing accessible complications with in-house modules.
One of the lesser known timepieces launched at SIHH 2012 is the Rotonde de Cartier Large Date Second Time Zone. Though not part of any formal collection, this Rotonde forms part of the intermediate segment of small complications that sit in between the Fine Watchmaking line (which starts at about EUR35,000) and the entry level (mostly ETA based) watches like the Santos 100.
The movement used is the cal. 8011 MC, with an in-house dual time zone and big date module added to the cal. 8000 MC that is manufactured by JLC. This same calibre was actually used last year in a Pasha case.
The Pasha from 2011
Last year’s Pasha was a limited production watch – 800 in steel and 1000 in gold – but it sold well, so the Rotonde now joins the range.
The Rotonde is only available in pink gold, in a 42 mm case.
The watch functions are intuitive: pulled to the first position, the crown adjusts the date when turned in one direction, and the second time zone in the other. The day and night indicator is linked to the home time display.
All the design elements are classic Cartier – silvered guilloche dial, blue steel hands and a sapphire cabochon on the beaded crown. And of course the Cartier “secret” signature is in the “VII”.
Although the watch is classical in design, the second time zone is a modern touch with a stylised sun and moon motif.
The movement is decorated sufficiently for a mid-range luxury watch, but it is rather monochromatic and visually uninteresting. A gold rotor would do wonders for some contrast. And as I have mentioned before for other calibres, Cartier should use a more interesting regulator index, like the “C” shaped index used in the 1904 MC.
Unlike the Pasha this is not a limited run with a fixed production number announced, but it probably won’t be around too long since Cartier is adept at keeping things fresh.
- SJX
This message has been edited by SJX on 2012-09-07 01:38:09The Cartier Santos 100 was introduced in 2004 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original Santos-Dumont watch. It represents a contemporary interpretation of the historic pilot's watch, featuring a larger and more robust case design compared to its predecessors. This model positioned itself as a sportier, more modern offering within the Santos collection, appealing to collectors seeking a bolder presence on the wrist while retaining the iconic square aesthetic.
The Santos 100 typically features a stainless steel or precious metal case, often with a brushed finish and polished bezel screws. Case dimensions vary, but common sizes include a large model around 51mm x 41mm. It is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, often a modified ETA caliber, providing reliable timekeeping. The crystal is usually sapphire, and water resistance is generally rated for daily wear.
For collectors, the Santos 100 is notable for its blend of heritage design with modern proportions and construction. It marked a significant update to the Santos line, moving towards a more substantial and contemporary aesthetic. Its robust build and versatile design made it a popular choice, bridging the gap between Cartier's dressier offerings and more overtly sporty watches.
This watch symbolizes perfectly IMHO where is currently Cartier: - I love the dial, especially its lay-out - the watch has a lot of charm - the movement works well but... - they clearly have to work on the decorative approach of the movement. Even if they are good movements, the perceived quality is below its actual level. This watch gives the proof... and they need to improve this. Thanks a lot of the report. Fx
A small change in the movement decoration, like the rotor finish, would improve its attractiveness a lot. - SJX
I really like the dial, have always loved Cartier's roman numerals and the secret signature, and like the day/night indicator. Is the guilloche hand done or is the dial stamped? The pattern is very nice and adds to the dial's good looks. I think the description of the movement as monochromatic is very appropriate. Really well decorated movements really pop when you view them and this movement seems a little flat. A very easy thing for Cartier to fix. Thanks for the pictures and report. Stewart
Only the Fine Watchmaking line is engraved. - SJX
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