Pre-owned Cartier Tortue ref WA504931 is a classic Cartier, named for its tonneau-shaped case. The name “Tortue” literally means “tortoise” in French, referring to the watch’s curved, elongated oval shape with flattened sides. Cartier introduced the model in 1912, making it one of the brand’s earliest non-round watch designs. It was created during a period when Cartier was experimenting with shaped cases, the same creative era that produced icons like the Santos (1904) and Tank (1917). While the Tank is rectangular and architectural, the Tortue feels softer and more organic. The curved case gives it a very elegant wrist presence and makes it instantly recognizable to collectors. Here, it takes on an luxurious aesthetic with a sparkling, diamond-encrusted bezel. The case, at 29mm, looks lovely on just about anyone’s wrist, while the leather strap is perfectly understated. Shop Cartier Watches Shop Cartier Tortue Watches