An oversize “XII” dominates, and does almost as much to identify the manufacturer as the brand name directly beneath it. The unidirectional bezel adjusts in 30-second increments (120 clicks per rotation).Ī slightly domed sapphire crystal with no nonreflective coating protects a dial finished in the Calibre de Cartier style. The edge of the bezel is highly polished, and crenelated for improved grip. The deep gloss gives the watch a top-quality look. It’s black ADLC (amorphous diamond-like carbon) over steel or rose gold, depending on the model. As we’ll discuss below, to those in the know, the simple “diver’s watch” inscription speaks volumes. The case is topped by an eye-catching, compliment-inducing bezel. The solid caseback is held in place with eight small screws. Some may feel the blue jewel is not appropriate for a dive watch, but keep in mind that a Cartier tool is going to be an elegant tool.įrom the earliest days, Cartier’s design brief called for a thin case. The crown’s polished finish and distinctive deep blue synthetic spinel give the watch a dressy demeanor. The smooth, seven-sided crown screws down, contributing to the 300-meter water-resistance rating. Add the crown guard, and the diameter is just over 45 mm. At 43.8 mm, the bezel is larger than the case, making it easier to grip. The case is officially listed at 42 mm in diameter. The oversize crown guard teams up with the bezel to make the watch wear larger than its specs indicate. When a strap is fitted, the screws play only an ornamental role. The screws at the end of each lug help secure the bracelet. This gives the watch a finished look, and it creates the impression that the strap is attached with curved spring bars, which it is not. The lugs are steeply curved and, combined with the rubber strap, make the Calibre Diver very comfortable to wear. On our test watch, this angled lip covers the gap between the strap and the case. Between the lugs, the top of the case band angles out to meet the bracelet’s end pieces. A polished bevel along the outer edges of the lugs catches the light. All its surfaces wear a fine brushed finish. At 111 grams, it’s also light, but as we’ll see, it’s no lightweight. When designing the watch, Cartier prioritized a svelte profile. At 10.92 mm thick in our calipers (and 11 mm officially), the Calibre Diver is slim. Aesthetically, the case is clearly a member of the Calibre de Cartier family. The Cartier Calibre Diver The Cartier Calibre de Cartier Diver’s Lookĭive watches are defined by their cases, so that’s where we will begin.

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