Cartier Large Tortue

About this reference

The Cartier Tortue reference 2496C in 18k yellow gold was produced during the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of the Collection Privée Cartier Paris (CPCP). Collectors prioritize this reference for its mechanical manual-wind Calibre 437 MC, developed by Piaget, which distinguishes it from quartz or ETA-based standard models. The 34mm by 43mm case features the traditional tortoise-inspired shape with a guilloché silver dial, Roman numerals, and a sapphire cabochon crown. This reference represents Cartier’s effort to return to high-end mechanical watchmaking using historical designs. On the secondary market, the 2496C typically trades between $18,000 and $25,000 depending on condition and the presence of original accessories. While the yellow gold version is the most common CPCP Tortue, production numbers remained limited compared to modern mass-market releases, and examples featuring the "Paris" signature on the dial command higher interest at auction.