The Allure and Investment Potential of the Cartier Roadster Blue Dial Watch

The Iconic Cartier Roadster Blue Dial

The Cartier Roadster is one of the most iconic luxury watches ever made. First introduced in 2001, the Roadster combined Cartier's signature elegance with a sporty, adrenaline-fueled spirit. This groundbreaking timepiece made waves for its unique case shape and captivating dial options, including the highly coveted and beautiful blue dial version.

History of the Cartier Roadster

The Roadster was born when Cartier wanted to appeal to a younger and more adventurous clientele. While Cartier was well-known for their elegant tank, Santos and Pasha watches, they lacked sportier and more casual offerings. The Roadster filled this void with a watch perfect for fast cars, airplanes, and extreme adventures.

Cartier designed the Roadster to capture the feeling of freedom, speed, and performance. The watch features a rounded tonneau case for a streamlined look. The exposed screws on the bezel add an industrial touch while the crown is large and easy to grip, much like a race car. Underneath, a Swiss-made automatic movement powers the watch with efficiency and accuracy.

The Allure of the Blue Dial

While the Cartier Roadster looks stunning in various dial colors, the blue dial version stands in a league of its own. The vibrant blue color gradient is eye-catching and unique. Depending on the lighting, it can appear bright and electric or deep and mysterious.

Watch aficionados love blue dials because the color is harder to produce compared to black or white dials. The blue hue adds character, intrigue, and flair to the Roadster styling. Against the silver tone hour markers and steel case, the blue pops magnificently.

Cartier has mastered the technique of blue dial creation. Their secret is using multiple layers of lacquer on the dial. The lacquer contains very fine blue pigments that get carefully painted onto the dial surface. It takes many precise coats to achieve the perfect dazzling blue.

Luxury Specifications

As expected from Cartier, only the finest materials are used for the Roadster blue dial watch. The case is made from grade 316L stainless steel or 18K rose gold vermeil. An anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the blue dial, ensuring excellent readability.

Inside ticks a Swiss-made automatic Calibre movement, visible through a transparent caseback. The sapphire cabochon-topped crown adds a nice touch of elegance. Additional premium details include a closed steel bracelet with the Cartier smartlink system for easy adjusting and 30 meters of water resistance.

Popular Reference Numbers

When shopping for a used or pre-owned Cartier Roadster with blue dial, you'll come across certain reference numbers frequently. Two of the most popular and available references include:

• W6206018 - Stainless steel case, blue dial, steel bracelet
• W6200013 - Stainless steel case, blue dial, brown leather strap

Both references feature the automatic Calibre movement and sapphire crystal. The main difference comes down to the strap/bracelet preference. With a production run spanning over a decade, these reference numbers can be found at various price points in the pre-owned market.

Is the Roadster a Good Investment?

In short - yes! The Cartier Roadster, especially with the blue dial, makes an excellent luxury watch investment. As a modern icon, the Roadster enjoys strong collector demand. Prices have been steadily rising for mint condition pieces.

The blue dial commands a higher premium versus standard black/white dial Roadsters. And pieces with boxes, papers, invoices help valuation even further. Being discontinued in 2012 adds more allure and rarity as well.

As with any watch investment, buying from a trusted seller is paramount. Make sure to have the watch authenticated and inspected before purchase. Pay close attention to the reference number, dial condition, functions working properly, and any signs of overpolishing.

The Perfect Balance of Form and Function

With its curved case, captivating blue dial and high-performance movement, the Cartier Roadster achieved a perfect balance. It brought together Cartier's trademark elegance with a contemporary, adventurous spirit that appealed tremendously to watch collectors.

The blue dial Roadster remains an important modern icon for Cartier. For those lucky enough to own one, it's a watch that will always gather attention and compliments whenever it's worn. And as a bonus, it happens to be a sound investment too!

FAQs

What movement does the Cartier Roadster use?

The Roadster is powered by a Swiss-made automatic Calibre movement, visible through a sapphire caseback. The movement is known for its precision, reliability and engraving that says "Cartier Swiss Made."

What size is the Roadster case?

The Cartier Roadster features a rounded tonneau shaped case that measures 43 mm x 35 mm. This curved ergonomic case sits nicely on most wrists while making a bold style statement.

Does the Cartier Roadster have a sapphire crystal?

Yes, an anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the stunning blue dial on the Roadster. Sapphire crystal is more scratch resistant than mineral glass crystal, ensuring excellent readability and longevity.

Is the Cartier Roadster water resistant?

The Roadster is water resistant to 30 meters, meaning it can withstand minor water exposure. However, it is not recommended for swimming, diving or high water-based activities as water damage will not be covered.