Drive de Cartier Collection, which was added to the Cartier product line last year through an introduction at the SIHH 2016, had two new versions this year presented once again at SIHH fair. Here we are with the Cartier Drive de Cartier Moon Phases and Drive de Cartier Extra-Flat photographed at the brand’s magnificent boutique at Istinye Park AVM – Istanbul.
Introduced at the SIHH 2016 for the first time, the Drive de Cartier collection has been highly acclaimed not only by the watch enthusiasts but the authorities as well with its design inspired by classic race cars. It’s been mentioned as an ideal product for the loyal followers of the brand and the watch enthusiasts who were preparing to meet Cartier for the first time. The new collection was highly appreciated soon after its debut and became one of the most successful product lines of 2016. The brand did not remain indifferent to that success and launched two new versions at the SIHH 2017.
The first novelty added to the collection is the Cartier Drive de Cartier Moon Phases model. As mentioned in its name, the new model features a moon phase function which is known as one of the most aesthetic complications of traditional watchmaking. The other model is the Cartier Drive de Cartier Extra-Flat series, which updates the product group with a slimmer case and a more refined design.
Drive de Cartier Moon Phases is available in a cushion-shaped case measuring 40mm x 41mm. The case, which is inspired by the chrome front grills of classic race cars, is offered in two versions as stainless steel and 18K pink gold. The one we have opted for our review is the stainless steel version. The case is equipped with scratch resistant sapphire crystals on both sides and it is water resistant to 30 meters. The characteristic angular shaped winding crown of the series remains the same.
The model’s dial bears classic Cartier details. The surface of the dial is decorated with traditional Guilloché pattern while the hands are coated in bright blue. The dial sports stylized Roman numeral indices and a moon phase indicator located at 6 o’clock position that is placed in its own sub-dial. There is an “Automatic” writing below the moon phase disk. Although it does not seem like a necessary detail in terms of aesthetics, it is obvious that it does not create a busy look in the dial which lacks a date window and a second hand.
The new model is powered with the La Maison’s own design and production Caliber Ref. 1904-LU MC. The movement beats at 28800vph and offers 48 hour power reserve when fully wound.
The Drive de Cartier Moon Phases models come with a brown crocodile leather strap and a folding clasp made of material the same material with the case.
The other model added to the Drive de Cartier Collection is the Extra-Flat version. The new timepiece deserves the Extra-Flat name with its total height of 6.6mm (40% thinner than the first generation Drive De Cartier models). The name of the model highlights the thickness parameter however; the diameter of the case is also slightly reduced. Measuring 38mm x 39mm, the case is water resistant to 30M. The Cartier Drive Cartier Extra-Flat is also offered in pink gold.
It is possible to see classic Cartier design details on the dial of the new model. Again, the surface of the dial is decorated with traditional Guilloché pattern and the hands are coated in bright blue. The dial looks pretty simple yet elegant with two hands and no extras.
Cartier Drive de Cartier Extra-Flat is powered with the Caliber Ref.430MC. The hand-wound movement, which is based on the Piaget Caliber Ref.430P, beats at 21600vph and offers 36 hours of power reserve which is a little less in today’s standards.
The 18K white version is accompanied by a gray alligator leather strap while the 18K pink gold model is presented with a brown alligator leather strap. Both models come with a classic Cartier style folding clasp made of 18K white or pink gold depending on the case material.
The year 2017 was a productive year with excellent designs on the ultra-slim concept especially for the brands that came to the forefront with their jeweler identities beside watchmaking. Cartier, took its place as one of the strong players in this delightful competition with its Cartier Drive de Cartier Extra-Flat model.
I like the Extra-Flat version a lot. As a user who likes sporty models in general, I mostly do not care about the thickness of the watches I wear. However, it can become a very important parameter when it comes to dress watches or versatile timepieces. Being able to wear your loved watch under your shirt’s cuff and rock it with your jeans and t-shirts too is priceless… Therefore, I think Cartier made a good move by rolling up his sleeves and get to work with refining its latest collection a year after its release. On the other hand, simplifying the dial is quite meaningful as it reminds that thickness is not just a spec but a part of the “less is more” motto.
If you want to see these new models added to the Cartier Drive de Cartier Collection, all you need to do is stop by at the brand’s spectacular boutique at Istinye Park AVM.
