PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTIER
Watches & Wonders 2026 is here, and Cartier is once again enriching its dynamic repertoire. At the same time, it showcases its savoir-faire through a singular mastery of form. Since the early 20th century, the maison has defined itself through shape-driven watchmaking. This year, that legacy extends under the theme ‘Watchmaker of Shapes, Master of Crafts’, where design leads, while technique follows.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTIER
Amongst the highlights, the Roadster makes its grand return with renewed focus on proportion, line and ergonomics. Originally launched in 2002, this updated iteration rethinks the bold ergonomics of automobile-inspired design with greater refinement. Yet it retains the instantly recognisable streamlined silhouette that defined the original.
Here, the balance between bezel and case feels especially considered, while a seamlessly integrated crown enhances overall fluidity. The interaction between crystal, metal and dial remains harmonious throughout. Meanwhile, thoughtful details such as the calendar aperture and metal cabochon add depth. Powered by in-house self-winding movements, it reflects both precision and cross-disciplinary expertise.
Next, the Santos-Dumont (SGD69,000), long regarded as a design icon, returns with quietly luxurious vintage accents. Its defining feature lies in the gilded obsidian dial, where naturally occurring air bubbles create a subtle iridescence. At just 0.3 MM thick, this delicate volcanic stone demands exceptional craftsmanship to shape and set.
Complementing this is a newly developed yellow gold bracelet inspired by the maison’s first made-to-measure watch from the 1920s. Meticulously assembled ultra-fine 1.15 MM links deliver remarkable flexibility, forming a mesh that feels almost like fabric. Each section comprises 15 rows, totalling 394 elements, balancing historical reference with modern execution.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTIER
Lastly, the Baignoire with quartz movement receives a bold yet elegant reinterpretation. With the addition of the Clou de Paris motif, it reflects Cartier’s dual identity as both jeweller and watchmaker. Rendered in monochrome gold, the geometric pattern introduces texture and architectural structure. In turn, it enhances the watch’s curved form while maintaining visual continuity from dial to bracelet.
Cartier’s craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from carefully moulded gold that preserves the new model’s proportions to integrated push-buttons that blend seamlessly into the bracelet’s curve. Whether in the mini version in yellow gold or the variation with a constellation of brilliant-cut diamonds, each piece is hand-polished to perfection, radiating a confident brilliance.
