The Cartier Tonneau was introduced in 1906, just two years after the very first modern men’s wristwatch, the Cartier Santos. Its distinctive barrel-shaped case “tonneau” being the French word for barrel, anticipated the bold, geometric aesthetic that would later define the Art Deco era: strong, refined, and unapologetically different.
Unlike the iconic Cartier Tank, the Tonneau has always remained somewhat under the radar. And that’s exactly the point. This is not a watch for the mainstream—it’s for the collector who appreciates nuance, who moves differently, and who values rarity over recognition.
This particular 1980s example features an 18k gold case measuring 39mm by 26mm. While the dimensions suggest presence, it wears with remarkable elegance thanks to its slim profile and gently curved form that follows the wrist perfectly. The dial showcases intricate guilloché engraving, paired with bold painted Roman numerals and the coveted “Paris” signature, indicating it was originally retailed at Cartier’s flagship boutique on Place Vendôme.
The watch is for someone who knows what is special. The watch is fully serviced by our watchmakers and comes with a 1-year warranty!
