One thing that is much easier to notice on the Calibre Chronograph versus the original model is the “Cartier California” dial. California dials are a style that was first presented by Rolex which has half of the hour markers as Arabic numerals and half as Roman numerals. The odd thing is that most people don’t seem to notice unless it is pointed out. That isn’t the case on the Calibre, but half are Roman numerals while the lower half are baton-style hour markers. Is that something you noticed immediately or did it need to be pointed out to you?

To keep the dial less cluttered, Cartier moved the minute marker scale to the inwardly sloped bezel. When first seeing renders of the Calibre Chronograph I was concerned about this design decision, but after seeing the watches I decided it was for the best. What it really does is allow the main dial to be kept more open and airy, but retain an ability to have more precise markers if necessary. While there is more at play on the Chronograph dial compared to the three-hander, the dial does feel more clean – which is a positive thing.

The case size remains 42mm wide, and I don’t think it is any thicker than the three-hand Calibre model. Of course there is the really slick integration of the chronograph pushers. As I mentioned when I first wrote about this watch, it is clear that Cartier always intended for the Calibre to have a Chronograph version, because the crown guard is so perfectly designed to incorporate pushers into it. Another interesting detail is that the Chronograph has MORE water resistance than the three-hand model. The Calibre has only 30 meters of water resistance while the Chronograph has 100 meters. I can’t claim to explain that, but it is what Cartier reports.

Cartier offers the Calibre Chronograph on both an alligator strap as well as a steel bracelet. Given that I am always a fan of Cartier watches on bracelets I have to recommend the latter option. Available in steel, 18k rose gold, and two-tone in steel and gold, the Calibre Chronograph is offered in a good range of versions. Having said that, the dial is only available in the off-white silver tone (for now). Those wanting a darker colored dial will have to wait. Prices range from $10,600 – $11,200 in steel, to $14,00o – $16,300 for the two-tone models, and $29,000 – $50,000 in solid 18k pink gold. cartier.com