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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Open-faced pocket watch

Platinum Cartier ultra-thin open faced pocketwatch

Partially verified

This platinum open-faced pocket watch was produced in 1923. The piece features an ultra-thin case design, measuring 45mm in diameter, executed in platinum. The watch is powered by a manual-winding EWC calibre movement, identified by the reference 16'''. The silvered dial is marked with the Cartier signature and incorporates black printed Roman numeral hour indices. An outer minute track frames the dial, which is equipped with blued steel hands. The winding crown is positioned at the twelve o'clock position, topped by a triangular-shaped bow. This timepiece maintains a minimalist aesthetic consistent with its thin-profile construction. The source documentation identifies the maker as Cartier and confirms the production year as 1923, citing the piece as a vintage model within the company's horological offerings. No further accessories are included with this instrument.

Front view of the platinum Cartier ultra-thin open-faced pocket watch showing the silvered dial, Roman numerals, and blued steel hands.
Front view of the platinum Cartier ultra-thin open-faced pocket watch showing the silvered dial, Roman numerals, and blued steel hands. — Somlo. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.somlo.com
Category
Pocket watch · Open-faced pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Cartier
Reference
16'''
Catalogue / lot identifier
3562
Source-reported date
1923
Source-reported place
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial

The watch is housed in an ultra-thin case constructed of platinum, measuring 45mm in diameter. The design features a smooth, plain case back and a distinct triangular bow assembly at the top, which accommodates the winding crown. This configuration is consistent with the open-faced construction style.

The dial is finished in silver, presenting a clean layout characterized by black printed Roman numeral hour indices. A detailed outer minute track runs the circumference of the dial. Blued steel hands are used to indicate time, which contrast against the silvered surface. The Cartier signature is prominently displayed on the dial, documenting the origin of the timepiece.

Evidence for this section
  • “Platinum Cartier ultra-thin open faced pocketwatch”
  • “Silvered dial featuring black printed outer minute track with Roman numeral hour indices and blued steel hands”
  • “Case dimensions: 45mm”

Movement and Specifications

According to the vendor, the watch functions on a manual-winding movement. The internal mechanism is categorized under the EWC calibre, specifically denoted by the reference 16'''. This specification corresponds to the technical parameters provided for the 1923 production year.

The movement is designed to fit within the thin profile of the platinum case. The listing identifies the watch as an ultra-thin model, which requires the compact architecture associated with the stated calibre. No further details regarding the escapement or jeweling of the movement are available in the provided source material.

Evidence for this section
  • “Reference: 16'''”
  • “Calibre: EWC”
  • “Movement: Manual”

Documentation and Authenticity

The object is documented as a vintage Cartier timepiece dating to 1923. The vendor identifies the item using the SKU 3562. The provided text attributes the watch to the brand Cartier, referencing the company's historical background in horology starting from 1904.

The source material establishes the primary identification of the watch through its specific reference and calibre markers. The listing does not include secondary documentation such as papers or original boxes, nor does it provide an exhaustive history of ownership. The provided facts are limited to the mechanical specifications and physical appearance documented at the time of the auction listing.

Evidence for this section
  • “Made: 1923”
  • “Brand: Cartier”
  • “SKU: 3562”

Open research questions

  • Confirm the full name and production timeline of the EWC calibre used in 1920s Cartier pocket watches.
  • Verify the specific workshop or production site associated with the 16''' movement reference.

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Platinum Cartier ultra-thin open faced pocketwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerCartier“Brand: Cartier”
Date1923“Made: 1923”
Reference16'''“Reference: 16'''”
CalibreEWC“Calibre: EWC”
Case MaterialPlatinum“Material: Platinum”
Case Dimensions45mm“Case dimensions: 45mm”
Dial FeaturesSilvered dial with Roman numerals“Silvered dial featuring black printed outer minute track with Roman numeral hour indices and blued steel hands”

Visible details

  • Triangular bow positioned at 12 o'clock
  • Silvered dial with black printed Roman numerals and minute track
  • Blued steel hands
  • Ultra-thin platinum case measuring 45mm

Research qualifications

  • Movement not pictured or verified beyond reference provided in text
  • Specific provenance history beyond production year is not provided

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Platinum Cartier ultra-thin open faced pocketwatch. Made 1923

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 1eadf14a9e

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

Other open-faced pocket watch records