Here we have a seldom seen example from Cartier’s noughties to tens catalogue. This is a 2012 Cartier La Doña reference 2835. It has the unusual asymmetrical trapezoid case design which extends to the half-crescent bracelet, with both formed of steel. The dial is the classic silver tone with the exaggerated black roman numerals, with hidden Cartier signing at 7. The thermally blued sword hands indicate the time. To the right is the Heptagonal crown which is set with the facetted sapphire. The curved case back has the brushed finish with the Cartier name and reference engraved. The watch is powered by the reliable Cartier Quartz calibre 690. The bracelet is well sized fitting up to a 180mm wrist diameter.

This is a well-kept full set with the original box, instruction booklet, international guarantee and Cartier range CD.

A star and the models inception

The La Dona was introduced in 2006 in honour of actress, singer and loyal Cartier client, Maria Felix. She was affectionately known as “La Dona”

Maria Felix was an actress and singer who was known for her incredible sense of style, which incorporated jewellery and bold accessories. She turned to Cartier to create bespoke pieces for her, with two of the most standout being a Snake Necklace and a double Crocodile necklace. They were commissioned in 1968 and 1975 respectively and when designing the Crocodile necklace, she was said to have brought her baby crocodile into the boutique to be used as a model.

In fact, the La Donas distinct design inspiration was drawn from Maria’s favourite animal, the crocodile. The trapezoid case has a wonderful asymmetrical profile which follows the flow of a crocodile’s head. This is paired with the chunky bracelet with articulation, which mimics the scales of the reptile.

The watch

The dial follows the same asymmetrical flow as the case. It has the classic silver tone which is lightly textured with the powdered finish. The roman numeral hour markers have the exaggerated design, being pulled towards to bottom of the case. They are the black tone and have a rich texture which catches the light on the edges. The hidden Cartier signing is placed within the V of the 7 o’clock marker. The railroad minute track also follows the flow of the dial and case, creating a pleasing triple symmetry. The Cartier name sits proudly below 12 o’clock with the Swiss made signing to the base of the dial.

A classic piece dictates that this had just the hour and minute hand, offering a clean approach. They are of the sword style and have the bright thermally blued tone which catches the light.

The case is the Trapezoidal shape with the asymmetrical flow, measuring 22mm at the top and 28mm to the base. It is a complex curve, flowing over the wrist smoothly, with the sapphire crystal sitting flush to the bezel, which further compliments the flow. The bezel and sides have the polished finish which interacts with the light. To the right-hand side, the crown is offset between 2 and 3 o’clock. This is a subtle yet important detail which just works. The crown has the Heptagonal form with the classic Cartier sapphire inset. The sapphire has the facetted finish which is reminiscent of a flower.

From the side, the curved profile of the case is noticeable. This is key in enabling the watch to fit snuggly to the wrist.

The case back is held in place with four screws and has the linear brushed finish. It is engraved with the Cartier name and reference, with the properties of the watch; ‘Stainless Steel’, ‘Water Resistant’ and ‘Swiss Made’.

The movement is the Cartier calibre 690 which is Quartz. It has a jewel count of 8 and is a quality and reliable quartz movement. It has a new battery fitted and is keeping accurate time.

The bracelet follows the asymmetric sizing with the 20mm width to the top and 24mm width to the bottom. The case has the solid sections to either end which has held in place with pins. The bracelet then further extends from this, held in place with screws. It is a complex bracelet design which results in a wonderful articulation on the wrist, despite its imposing feel. It is a seamless design with the clasp being hidden by the double fold over ends. The bracelet is well sized for a lady, fitting up to a 180mm wrist circumference.

As mentioned, this is a well-kept full set with the original box, instruction booklet, international guarantee and Cartier range CD.

The watch is modelled on a 7” wrist circumference.
Please see the images as these compliment and aid the description provided below.
A further condition report is below.

Dial:
The dial is in excellent original condition with no marking.

Hands:
The hands are in excellent original condition with no marking.

Glass:
The sapphire crystal is in excellent original condition with no marking.

Crown:
The crown is in very good original condition with only some light marks

Case:
The case is formed of Stainless Steel and is in very good pre-owned condition, with only light scratching to the polished finishing.

Caseback:
The case back is Stainless Steel and is in very good condition with only some light marks.

Bracelet:
The bracelet is in good original condition, with light scratching to the underside, as expected. It is well sized, fitting up to a 180mm wrist diameter.

Movement:
The movement is the Cartier calibre 690 which is Quartz. It has a jewel count of 8 and is a quality and reliable quartz movement. It has a new battery fitted and is keeping accurate time.

Case dimensions
Case width: 27.75mm
Case width with crown: 29.5mm
Case length: 28mm
Case length lug to lug: 43mm
Case depth: 7.8mm
Lug width: 19mm