These two new models of the Cartier Replica Drive Extra-Flat are very much the same watch we saw a year ago, just in different metals. The classic yellow gold and stainless steel cases are great choices for a design like this and the approximately 39mm size means both will wear great on a variety of wrists. The svelte 6.6mm profile makes this a true ultra-thin too. Sitting alongside the time-and-date, moonphase, travel-time, and even tourbillon versions Drive, this is the simplest watch in the Drive collection and the purest expression of the design.
The cushion shape felt sort of familiar but fresh at the same time, and it was clear that Cartier had created something that it could iterate on and evolve in a number of different directions. This was confirmed last year with the introduction of the Cartier Replica Watches, which dedicated collectors and casual Cartier fans both fawned over immediately. These new watches extend that sub-collection and offer a two great new options to people considering the model, including one perfect for everyday wear.
I wasn’t bashful about my love for the Drive Extra-Flat at last year’s SIHH, and I have no intention to be bashful about my love for it this time around. I was a little skeptical when the original Cartier Replica debuted, but the Extra-Flat to me is Cartier at its very best. The shape has a bit of character without being garish, the little details are handled superbly, and the overall effect is at once effortless and elegant. The only question remaining is whether I like the steel or yellow gold model better. And to be honest, it’s a really tough choice…
Brand: Cartier
Model: Drive de Cartier Extra-Flat
Dimensions: 38mm x 39mm
Thickness: 6.6mm
Case Material: Stainless steel or yellow gold
Dial Color: Silvered
Indexes: Printed black Roman numerals
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Blue alligator strap with steel ardillon buckle, grey alligator strap wth yellow gold ardillon buckle
Caliber: 430 MC, which is Cartier’s version of the Piaget 430P
Functions: Hours, minutes
Diameter: 20.5mm
Thickness: 2.1mm
Power Reserve: 36 hours
Winding: Manual
Frequency: 3.5 Hz
Jewels: 18