Privé Tank Chinoise Skeleton LIMITED 100 REF. CRWHTA0016

The skeletonised version of the Tank Chinoise is almost identically sized, but it is certainly more striking. The colours and complexity of the skeleton version diminish the angularity and edges of the case, giving the watch a very different feel, despite the case being largely unchanged.
The skeleton utilises a variant of Cartier’s well-known hand-wind skeleton movement, the 9627 MC. But instead of Roman numerals as is the norm for Cartier’s skeleton movements, the bridges and base plate have been open-worked to form a Chinese-inspired geometric pattern, one similar to those found on ancient textiles.
But most unusual is the base plate that doubles as the dial – it’s been filled with lacquer. While Cartier has used lacquer to decorate cases in the past, the lacquered bridges are a first.