Strap Guide: Cartier Tortue CPCP 'Collection Prive'

Strap Guide written by @thewatchphoto. Thank you, Majd!

Introduction

The Cartier Tortue, first introduced in 1912, stands as a testament to Cartier's enduring legacy of innovative design and watchmaking expertise. Its distinctive tortoise-shaped case (hence the French word, “Tortue”), a departure from the prevalent round pocket watches of its era, quickly established itself as an icon of Art Deco design. The neo-vintage Cartier Tortue CPCP 'Collection Prive' in yellow gold was introduced by Cartier in the early 2000s as part of the CPCP program, and sought to bring the Tortue line’s sophisticated charm back to life. With its elegant proportions, classic Roman numerals and heat-blued Breguet hands, the Tortue is a dress watch par excellence, exuding a timeless appeal that bridges the gap between historical reverence and contemporary style. Its warm yellow gold case acts as a versatile canvas, allowing for a diverse range of strap pairings that can either amplify its classic grandeur or inject a touch of modern flair.

Here, we explore five distinct options that promise to elevate this horological masterpiece, from classic pairings to more adventurous combinations.

Brown Alcantara Signature "Teddy Bear"

The Brown Alcantara Signature strap offers a blend of casual appearances and luxurious texture. Alcantara, a suede-like material, provides a soft, tactile feel that is both comfortable on the wrist and visually appealing. The soft brown hue harmonises beautifully with the yellow gold case of the Tortue, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic. This strap choice lends a slightly more relaxed, yet still refined, character to an otherwise fairly formal dress watch, making it suitable for smart-casual settings while retaining an air of understated elegance. Warning: particularly comfy on brisk winter days.

Blue Jean Ostrich Leg Signature

For those looking to bring in a ‘pop’ of distinction, the Blue Jean Ostrich Leg Signature strap is an exceptional choice. The unique texture of ostrich leg leather, with its prominent scales and natural variations, adds an intriguing visual dimension. The ‘Blue Jean’ colour, a stunning shade of blue, matches beautifully with the blued steel hands of the Tortue, highlighting the watch's warmth while introducing a contemporary and playful element. This pairing is perfect for making a subtle statement while mixing things up over the more traditional textures, such as alligator leather.

Cream Saffiano Stitchless

The Cream Saffiano Stitchless strap epitomises understated elegance and sophisticated charm. Saffiano leather, known for its distinctive cross-hatch texture and durability, provides a robust surface that resists scratches and stains. The stitchless design ensures a clean, minimalist look that allows the Tortue's lines to take centre stage. The soft cream colour offers a gentle contrast to the yellow gold, creating a bright, airy and incredibly versatile combination that is ideal for any occasion.

Matte Dark Brown Alligator Flank Stitchless

Leaning into the Tortue's inherent classicism and luxury, the Matte Dark Brown Crocodile Flank Leather Stitchless strap is an impeccable match. Crocodile leather is a timeless choice for high-end watches, and the flank cut offers a unique, more organic pattern compared to the traditional square cuts. The matte finish of the dark brown enhances its formal appearance, providing a deep, rich backdrop for the yellow gold. The stitchless construction allows the eye to enjoy the texture uninterrupted, resulting in a supremely elegant and traditional pairing that underscores the watch's heritage.

Green Waxy Slim

The Green Waxy Leather Slim Watch Strap introduces a touch of vintage charm and a subtle splash of colour. Waxy leather develops a beautiful patina over time, adding character and depth as it ages. The slim profile of the strap complements the Tortue's 9mm case thickness, ensuring a comfortable fit and a streamlined silhouette. The deep green hue, reminiscent of classic British racing green, delivers a verdant tone to the watch, and contrasts well against the yellow gold to offer a tasteful alternative to more conventional colours. This pairing is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of classic aesthetics with a hint of individuality.