How is a classic born? It needs to look good from birth and then age nicely overtime retaining its reputation for having good looks. A classic thus, must survive the test of time

How is a classic born? It needs to look good from birth and then age nicely overtime retaining its reputation for having good looks. A classic thus, must survive the test of time. In the watch world, there are instant classics, ones discovered over decades, and those still memorable after just a few years in existence given the many luxury models they must compete with. So I look at this special Cartier Roadster XL in 18k pink gold that was announced in 2008 (also arrived in 18k white gold). Two years in the luxury watch world can be a long time for an “experimental” model, and most of them end up looking silly just a year after being released. Not here. What was different about this Roadster? Certainly not the fact that it is a Roadster, but rather the use of polished and lacquered walnut wood. A design taken from roadster cars, the combo of Cartier and wood is gorgeous. Use of wood isn’t reserved for classic roadster cars, but other luxury automobiles, as well as watches from time to time. Most other watches that use wood do so in the case, and as a nod to boats, not cars. Cartier mixed wood with gold so well, this piece certainly qualifies as a classic.

Beautifully grained walnut is used as the dial, as well as center links in the gold bracelet. According to Cartier, the wood links in the bracelet are so well treated and coated, they are totally water resistant. The dial is printed to be extremely legible, just like in standard Roadster fashion. Technically, there isn’t too much special in the watch, just an ETA Swiss automatic movement (likely a 2892). Though the Cartier name on this impressive watch makes for a solid (gold) timepiece. Quite possibly the best watch to wear while spending time in your Rolls Royce or Bentley with a matching wood interior. Pricey at about $40,000. Also limited to 250 pieces (I believe). Click on “READ MORE” below for additional images. By the way, this piece was molested by me at the San Francisco Cartier boutique store.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

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Cartier Roadster XL Watch In Gold & Walnut Aging Well originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cartier Roadster XL Watch In Gold & Walnut Aging Well