Cartier high-end watches?

[gdl203]

Originally Posted by Étienne

So I guess my question was more to know if the difference is really discernable or if it just a comfort to know that those (invisible and making no difference in utility) details are there. (not that there's anything wrong with that, I just want to know)
I understand your preferences for function over form. To answer your question though: yes, differences are really discernable (visually). Here are a few examples (sorry about the half-arsed pictures):

This is what an ETA 6497 (aka Unitas) with simple finishing as was used by Panerai in some of its handwound Luminor watches (basic models with solid backs):

Here is a version that involves a few more modifications and improvements in finishing in other versions of the same Panerai watches (with see-through backs) note the cut of the movement plates, the balance cock and the shape of the regulator (bottom)

And here is the same movement/Ã

bauche modified and improved by Dornblueth

These three pictures are essentially the same movement with the same functionality (although Dornblueth added a power reserve function to this specific movement which you can probably see on the pic)


Now here is a couple of striking examples of high end movements with lots of work, which is very visible

 

[imageWIS]

Originally Posted by zjpj83

Collection PrivÃ

e is very nice but a very high price for what it is IMO.

+1.

Jon.

 

[Etienne]

Originally Posted by gdl203

I understand your preferences for function over form.
It's a weak preference at best. My real concern is when a detail cannot be justified by function nor by exterior beauty (although sometimes I still indulge in that kind of hard-to-justify details).

Anyway tanks for the detailed answer.

 

[Aristocrat]

Well to summon up this thread,
Patek Phillipe or Cartier Collection PrivÃ

e?
I would really like this watch to go through generations..