Cartier Releases Black Balloon Models

　　At this year's SIHH watch exhibition, Cartier's new introductions proved truly eye-catching, presenting two matte black entry-level timepieces with stainless steel cases finished in black ADLC carbon coating alongside dark dials. One stems from the popular entry-level Ballon Bleu range, while the other belongs to the celebratedCartier Santos collection,and both models are already available locally.

　　Cartier first applied an ADLC coating to the Santos series back in 2009, so this Santos 100 Carbon feels more like a re-edition than a completely new design. Unlike the previous version, however, this Santos 100 replaces the ETA movement with the manufacture 1847 MC movement. Visually, it measures 51.1mm×41.3mm, pairing a black dial with white hour markers, white hour and minute hands, and an eye-catching red seconds hand.

　　The other black model,Cartier Ballon Bleumeasuring 42mm, shares the same styling, colour palette and movement.

　　In my view, the red, black and white colourway gives these two black timepieces a bolder, more distinctive appeal than the standard editions. Furthermore, according to Cartier, the ADLC coating is harder and more scratch-resistant than standard PVD, making these watches ideal for hassle-free daily wear.