Short answer
The Cartier Baignoire ref 2515 is a quartz watch with an oval case, Roman numerals, and a sapphire cabochon crown. Genuine examples sell used for roughly $4,000 to $9,000, depending on metal and condition. Replica examples sell for about $200 to $600. The gap sits in the case curve, the crown, and the dial print. Those three parts decide whether a replica looks correct on a wrist.
What ref 2515 is
Cartier lists the Baignoire as an oval case. The 2515 sits in the smaller range. Most listings measure the case at about 22 mm wide and 31 mm long. Some sellers list 18 mm by 25 mm. Case metal is 18k yellow gold on many units. Steel versions exist. The strap is leather in most listings. The buckle is gold or steel, matched to the case.
Movement and service
Ref 2515 runs on a quartz calibre. It takes a battery. Cartier services quartz watches by replacing the battery, gaskets, and seals. Service intervals are shorter than on mechanical calibres. A replica quartz module is the weak point. Cheap modules drift, tick in visible steps, and lose time within months.
Parts that separate a good replica from a bad one
- Case curve. The Baignoire case bends to sit on the wrist. A flat case reads wrong from the side.
- Crown cabochon. Genuine stones are blue sapphire, set in a polished crown. Replicas use glass or dyed plastic.
- Dial print. Roman numerals should be crisp. Blurred edges show up under a loupe.
- Hands. Sword hands are blued steel on genuine dials. Replicas use painted metal.
- Weight. A gold case has heft. Plated brass does not.
- Strap and buckle. Stitching and buckle finish are easy tells.
Buying notes
Ask for photos of the case profile, the crown, and the caseback. Ask for the movement type and the case metal. Replica sellers often do not know. Prices above $600 for a 2515 replica are hard to justify. Customs can seize replica shipments in the US and the EU. Cartier will not service a replica. A jeweler can replace a battery, but not case parts.