Cartier Tortue Cloisonné Enamel Dial and Case Phoenix, Ref. 2496, Pink Gold

A very special and rare Cartier Tortue crafted in 18k pink gold with a cloisonné enamel dial and case depicting a flying phoenix. Ref. 2496.

This watch features the iconic tortoise-inspired case design with a magnificent and intricate cloisonné enamel dial and case. The watch is powered by hand wound caliber 430 MC and comes fitted with its original Cartier 18k deployant buckle. Case 34mm wide. Ca. 2000’s.

There is something very interesting about this piece. A similar design exists in a limited edition of 20 pieces but with the phoenix flying in the opposite direction (left side facing to the right) and each piece is numbered in the convention “X/20”. By contrast, our watch here has the phoenix on the right side and facing to the left, and the caseback bears only the number “No. 01”. With its unique dial and serial number, this piece could possibly be one of a kind.