THE NEW CLASSIC
By Celine Simon
THE ROADSTER
REFLECTS THE
MORE THAN TWO DECADES LATER, THE ROADSTER RETURNS SHARPER, SLEEKER, AND UNMISTAKABLY CARTIER
CARTIER BROTHERS’
W When Cartier introduced the Roadster in 2002, it added a distinctly automotive personality to the maison’s long tradition of shaped watches. Inspired by classic sports cars, its tonneau-shaped case combined flowing curves with a speedometer-inspired dial, a prominent conical crown, and a magnified date window reminiscent of a headlight. Its powerful design reflected the Cartier brothers’ fascination with the mechanical world and technological advancement. Cartier has now revived the Roadster while preserving the elements that made the original so recognizable. The designers focused on refining its proportions, sharpening its lines, and
FASCINATION WITH THE
MECHANICAL WORLD
The Cartier Roadster RETURNS
AND TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENT.
improving ergonomics without altering its signature silhouette. More than one hundred artisans contributed to the project, from designers and watchmakers to dial specialists, polishers, and stampers.
The dial remains familiar, maintaining its circular striated pattern, Roman numerals, railroad minute track, and magnified date display. New decorative techniques create greater depth: an appliqué effect created by a stamping tool adds relief, while varnish applied to the indexes and railroad minute track enhances the dial’s detailing. The steel models are paired with blue or anthracite Super-LumiNova-coated sword hands, and four rivets added to the bezel further emphasize the automotive-inspired design. Available in stainless steel, two-tone steel and yellow gold, or full yellow gold, the Cartier Roadster collection is offered in both large and medium sizes. The larger models are powered by Cartier’s automatic Caliber 1847 MC, while the medium versions use the automatic Caliber 1899 MC.
Cartier also redesigned the integrated bracelet with shorter, more ergonomic links and a revised mix of polished and brushed surfaces. The QuickSwitch system remains, allowing owners to swap easily between the bracelet and the accompanying leather strap. More than two decades after its debut, the Roadster returns with updated proportions while remaining unmistakably one of Cartier’s most distinctive contemporary designs.
38 | RUMMELE’S JEWELERS MAGAZINE
39 | RUMMELE’S JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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