For each of the past few years Cartier has unveiled a grand complication wristwatch using a Renaud et Papi movement featuring tourbillon, perpetual calendar and monopusher chronograph. For 2012 the same calibre will be housed inside a beautifully executed pocket watch, the Cartier Grand Complication Skeleton pocket watch. Along with the new Rotonde minute repeater, these are the most complicated offerings in store for SIHH 2012.

Cartier Grand Complication Skeleton pocket watch

The skeletonised Roman numerals are solid white gold and hand finished with carefully bevelled edges, like the bridge of a movement. This design was inspired by Cartier pocket watches from the thirties.

Overall the case is 59 mm wide. Each of the correctors for the date indications run through the skeletonised Roman numerals to the outer band of the case where pushers are located.

To hold the watch Cartier includes an obsidian and rock crystal stand, along with a white gold chain and fob.

In previous years I was lukewarm about the grand complication, as I thought it was expensive and not particularly creative in terms of watchmaking though it is immensely complex. However, I do like this pocket watch, it is not only beautifully executed but also quite novel.

– SJX

Notice the hand bevelled Roman numerals in white gold