Cartier Tortue XL CPCP 2763 18K Yellow Gold
This is the Cartier Tortue 2763J from the highly collectable and sought-after Collection Privée Cartier Paris. The CPCP (1998-2008), saw Cartier revisit the all-round exquisiteness of its watch-making origins. After a fair time of Cartier's watchmaking being tailored to the mass, commercial market, the CPCP signalled a return to haute horlogerie for Cartier; it went back to its roots by revisiting some of its most iconic designs, and once again employing the use of precious metals and high-quality mechanical calibres. Despite the CPCP's great appeal, no piece from the collection was ever produced in great numbers therefore ensuring its exclusivity.
This CPCP Cartier Tortue closely echoes the form of the original from the early twentieth century. All aspects have however been amplified in order to suit modern tastes, Cartier describe this model as the 'Grand Modèle' and it measures 37mm x 39mm. Whilst the case on the original was relatively thin and slight, here it has been made more prominent creating perfect, strong and smooth balance throughout the piece. The entire rose gold case is polished which adds to its symmetry, uniformity and elegance. The dial is solidly and beautifully framed. As is a feature of many CPCP models, the caseback has a sapphire glass insert allowing the intricate inner workings of the watch to be viewed, the caseback is signed, engraved and held neatly in place by four small screws along the top that are perfectly mirrored by four small screws on the opposite edge. Every detail of the watch is exquisitely executed.
The dial carries all the hallmarks of a CPCP timepiece; Cartier Paris sits perfectly between the 12 and the centre of the silver dial and the central point is encapsulated by a small rose from which delicate guilloché radiates, covering the entire surface. Bold Cartier Roman numerals are printed in black on the dial and precisely follow the form of the case as does the traditional railway track minute markers placed to the inside edge of the Roman numerals. The dial is completed with a secret signature at 7 and blue steel breguet hands, keeping in line with the traditional Cartier feel of the watch. The piece is finished with a refined, faceted blue cabochon placed on an octangular crown, which contrasts with and nicely contains the free-flowing gloss of the case. The watch design strikes just the right balance, the feel of the piece is wonderfully luxurious whilst remaining calmly sophisticated.
Information:
Pre-owned: Cartier Tortue XL CPCP 2763
Reference: 2763
Dated: 2008
Dial: White Rosette Guilloché
Bracelet: Black Leather Cartier strap on 18k gold Cartier deployant - extra aftermarket blue strap
Case: 37mm X 39mm - 18K Rose Gold
Movement: Cartier caliber 9601 MC - Manual
Functions: HM
Box and Papers: Box and warranty papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition:
Case has light micro wear with nothing notable. Strap has normal creasing with no extra wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Watch runs spec and was serviced by Cartier in 2022.
History of Cartier
Cartier, founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, began as a jewelry workshop that quickly gained recognition among French aristocracy. Under the leadership of Alfred Cartier, the company expanded into watchmaking, with a pivotal moment occurring in 1904 when Louis Cartier created the Santos Dumont, the world's first modern men's wristwatch, for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.
Throughout the 20th century, Cartier continued to innovate in watch design, introducing iconic timepieces like the Tank in 1918, inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank. The company's watches became known for blending functionality with artistic elements, incorporating Art Deco influences and precious materials. Today, as part of the Richemont Group, Cartier remains a leader in luxury watchmaking, continuing to produce exquisite timepieces that combine tradition with contemporary design, from the classic Tank to the modern Pasha.
