Cartier Ceinture in Yellow Gold, Paris Dial, ref 78100 SM size - mechanical wind movement

Maker: Cartier
Model: Ceinture
Year: 1970’s
Dial: White Lacquer original Paris dial
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold
Size: SM
Dimensions: 24.5mm by 25mm diameter; 6.6mm thickness
Case serial: 781004169
Caliber: Manual caliber 78-1
Service history: NA, +14.6 seconds per day
Bracelet/Strap: original 18k yellow gold Cartier deployant buckle, generic epsom black leather strap.
Lug Width: 14mm
Box/Papers: Cartier box only

The Ceinture was originally introduced by Cartier in 1927. Over 50 years later, during the early 1970's, Cartier reintroduced the Ceinture as one of 12 special "shaped" watches that formed part of the “Louis Cartier Collection”. This 12 shape collection included familiar models such as the Ellipse, Cristallor, Gondollo, and Stepped Tank. The word Ceinture in French translates to "belt", and the watch was named as such given its resemblance to the buckle of a belt. The Ceinture in this era was produced either in white gold, yellow gold, or a combination of white gold and yellow gold. The octagonal case has a beautiful double stepped bezel and the manual wind 78-1 caliber can be wound by a flat octagonal crown. The present example here is the Ceinture in the SM size which was produced for women's. At 24.5mm x 25mm and 6.6mm thick, the case on this Ceinture is made of yellow gold. The Ceinture stands as a perfect example of why Cartier is often referred to as the "master of shapes". The maison's astonishing talent lies in crafting refreshingly unique designs that defy the traditional norms of their era, leaving us truly amazed.

This Cartier Ceinture SM size in yellow gold is in overall excellent vintage condition. The octagonal case is strong and its unique double stepped bezel is sharp. The case has just very light scratches throughout but has most likely never been polished before. For a Cartier from this era, the case is in excellent condition. The dial is the original Paris signed white lacquered dial which is very rare given most dials get replaced by Cartier during servicing to a "Swiss made" dial. As with the vast majority of Cartier white lacquered dials produced in the 70's, the dial has formed some minor cracks that can be observed under a loupe. The original black painted numerals is in beautiful condition. The caliber 78-1 movement service history is unknown but it has been checked by our watchmaker and is running well. It is currently running at +14.6 seconds per day. Included is the original Cartier deployant clasp in solid 18k yellow gold, complete with crisp hallmarks and its own serial number—which is collectible and valuable in itself. The watch is paired with a generic black Epsom calf leather strap and also comes with a Cartier box.

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