Overview
The Ceinture ("belt" in French) is known for its angled case that resembles a belt's buckle and its unique flat crown that sits within a cutout inside of the bezel. Cartier first produced these watches in 1927 and the resurrected the line in the mid 1970s in three different case sizes: 25mm, 27mm, and 31mm. What I have here is the mid-size 27mm version that wears similarly to a vintage Tank Louis (23mm x 30mm) of the same era. That is to say, it's a supremely charming fit on the wrist.
Specifications
Brand:
Cartier
Model:
Ceinture
Reference:
78099
Year:
1970s
Case Number:
780992482
Case Material:
Yellow gold
Diameter:
27 mm
Lug Width:
16 mm
Thickness:
6.6 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
Dial:
White
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
Cartier 78.1
Bracelet/Strap:
Veblenist black saffiano strap with tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
UNWORN: Case is pristine with no signs of use. Original stickers may still be present. Dial, hands, and lume have no imperfections and may show natural, even aging.
MINT: Case has only a few superficial hairlines. Lugs are thick, full, and sharp with superb finishing. Dial, hands, and lume may have micro imperfections visible only with a loupe.
EXCELLENT: Case has very light scratches or nicks. Lugs are thick, full, and well-defined. Dial and hands may have imperfections visible upon close inspection. Lume is fully intact and may show slight discoloration.
VERY GOOD: Case may have a few moderate scratches or nicks. Lugs are thick and full but may have softened edges. Dial and hands may have light stains or marks. Lume may have cracks or discoloration.
GOOD: Case has many scratches and nicks. Lugs may show signs of moderate polishing with worn edges. Dial and hands may have noticeable stains or marks. Lume may be damaged or show significant discoloration.
Case: The case has a few little nicks and hairlines consistent with normal wear throughout the years. The case back engravings are sharp, and are currently protected by a clear sticker.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The white dial has taken on a subtle "spider" effect with hairline cracks throughout. This is a rather cool effect found in many of the white-dial Cartiers of the 70s and 80s. There is minor staining at the edge, most notably at the 2 o'clock position. The blue hands and crystal are in excellent condition.
Bracelet/Strap: The Veblenist black saffiano strap is brand new.
Movement
Timing: The watch has been manually observed over a 24-hour period and appears to be running normally.
Functions: All functions including the crown-winding and time-setting are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
