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Cartier Roadster S Watch

In Porsche language "S" refers to a sport model that is between the "standard" model and the "Turbo" model. It is a more expensive version of the original, with enough power to make you feel excited, without the showiness of the Turbo version. In Cartier language however, this label means "sport" as well, but not more expensive. The still fresh Roadster S watch from Cartier is a simplified version of their famous Roadster watch collection. Many people might actually prefer the S over the standard version given its more straight forward design and layout. Gone are the "bullet" shaped sapphire crystal lens over the date that visually connected with the crown, as well as the screws on the case. The crown here is a bit more streamlined (no cabochon as well). and only a black line on the dial around the date window alludes to the pointy, rounded shaped of the sapphire crystal lens on the standard Roadster watch.

There are two versions of the Roadster S timepiece. Each has a Cartier Caliber 049 automatic movement and is about 45.9 mm wide (11.8mm thick). One is the pictured steel version with steel bracelet. There is also a slightly less expensive version with a rubber bracelet and an aDLC coated bezel in black to match the color of the rubber strap. Each is very elegant looking, and modern at the same time. These truly are the new type of mainstream Cartier watch for this decade. The Roadster S has an iconic Cartier dial in silvered opaline white with the Roman numerals and lume coated sword-style hands. The black colored date disc with white numerals is a good design element. Nice watches that allude to the more expensive models, and have a true Cartier spirit with a slightly sporty twist. Price is $4,600 with the steel bracelet, and $4,200 with the rubber strap. Don't forget that you can even buy them online via Cartier's e-boutique. Check out their US online store here.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Cartier Roadster S watch with rubber strap