Cartier is a brand that has managed to be among the pioneers of the industry with its characteristic timepieces in every era. It is possible to see many cult models such as Pasha, Tank, Rotonde, Ballon Bleu in the rich portfolio of the famous brand. The name of the series that led me to write this article is Tortue Mono Poussoir, which means "one-button turtle".
The Tonneau case model, introduced in 1928, must have been more likened to the turtle by Cartier designers, so it received such a name. As you can imagine, the Monopusher attachment is due to the chronograph complication that can be controlled with a single pusher. We are talking about a watch that was formed by the combination of a superior movement and stylish lines of the brand, which were acquired through close contacts that Cartier established with Jaeger (before LeCoultre) and European Watch & Clock. These aforementioned brands also supply calibers to other iconic models such as Tank Cintree and Tank à Guichets in the 30s. Thanks to the simple and elegant structure of the Monopusher, which can be operated with a single pusher, the chronograph became a complication that could enter the gentlemen's club.
The new Tortue MP, introduced under the roof of 'Collection Privee Cartier Paris (CPCP)' in April 1999, causes great excitement among watch lovers. The model, offered in an 18K yellow gold case, manages to attract attention with its more masculine and sporty lines compared to the original version. It makes a bold entrance to the world of watches with its 43mm x 35mm x 10mm case and the hand-wound Caliber 045MC movement. THA production movement comes to life with the magical hands of Vianney Halter, Denis Flageollet, and F.P. Journe. I think you are familiar with the names Halter and Journe. Flageollet, for those who don't know, is the founder of De Bethune.
A short while later, a white gold case version of the same watch was introduced, accompanied by a much more modern dial. Over the years, a third watch is added to the series. This time, due to the irresistible trend of those years, the pink gold version came with an oversized case measuring 38mm x 48mm.
It is not possible not to mention the Tank Mono Poussoir while talking about the Cartier models with the Monopusher chronograph feature. Introduced in 2007, the watch had an 18K rose gold case measuring 34mm x 43mm and featured the Caliber 045MC, just like the Tortue model. It is hard to find a model that is limited to only 100 pieces even in auctions nowadays. Fortunately, there is a also white gold case version introduced in 2008, which is limited to 100 pieces just like its rose gold sibling.
image by troisanneaux
