Short answer

A replica Cartier Rotonde 42mm is a copy of the Rotonde de Cartier case: a round 42mm watch with a cabochon crown at 3 o'clock. Replica prices run from $150 to $600. The case shape, dial print, and crown copy the original. The movement does not. Genuine Rotonde 42mm references use Cartier in-house calibers. Replicas use an Asian 7750, a decorated 7750, or quartz.

Genuine Rotonde 42mm references

Cartier lists three Rotonde models at 42mm.

  • Rotonde de Cartier Chronograph. Caliber 1904-CH MC. 18k rose gold or white gold. Automatic. 48-hour power reserve.
  • Rotonde de Cartier Day and Night. Caliber 1904-LU MC. Large date at 12. Day and night aperture at 6.
  • Rotonde de Cartier Second Time Zone. Caliber 1904-FU MC. Second time zone aperture. Day and night indicator.

All three use a sapphire crystal. The chronograph adds a sapphire caseback. Case metal is 18k gold on every reference.

Movement types in replicas

Three movement types show up in replica Rotonde 42mm watches.

  1. Asian 7750 automatic. 28,800 vph. Power reserve listed at 40 to 44 hours. Chronograph pushers feel firm.
  2. Decorated clone. A 7750 base with engraved bridges and a Cartier-style rotor. Same performance as the base movement.
  3. Quartz. Lower cost. The small seconds hand ticks once per second.

Case and finish

Most replica cases are 316L stainless steel. The gold color comes from PVD plating or gold wrap. Plating thickness is often 3 to 10 microns. Solid 18k gold builds exist and sell above $2,000. Genuine Rotonde 42mm cases are solid 18k gold, so a plated steel case weighs less on the wrist.

Six checks before you buy

  1. Measure the case. 42mm across at 3 to 9 o'clock, crown not included.
  2. Measure thickness. Genuine chronograph cases sit under 13mm. Many replicas run 14mm to 16mm.
  3. Weigh the watch. A steel replica on a leather strap lands between 70g and 90g.
  4. Look at the crystal. Sapphire carries anti-reflective coating on one or two faces. Mineral glass shows more reflection.
  5. Read the caseback. Laser engraving looks shallow. Stamped text has depth.
  6. Check the cabochon. Genuine crowns carry a blue sapphire or spinel. Replicas use glass or a synthetic stone.

Price bands

  • $150 to $250: quartz or low-grade automatic, mineral glass, plated case.
  • $250 to $400: Asian 7750, sapphire crystal, sharper dial print.
  • $400 to $600: decorated movement, closer case dimensions, better strap.

Legal note

In the United States, trafficking in counterfeit goods is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. 2320. Customs can seize shipments. Trademark holders can file civil claims against sellers.