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Are vintage Cartier watches a good investment?
1 Answer

Many watch lovers believe that vintage Cartier watches are a good investment. French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, many people only used pocket watches.) Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to check the time more easily while flying. Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, inspired by the linear forms of World War I military tanks, and the so-called mystery clocks. Invented by watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later crafted exclusively for Cartier in the house’s workshop by watchmaker Maurice Couët, the mystery clocks were so named because the integration of glass dials on which the clocks’ hands would seemingly float as well as structures that are hidden away within the base give the illusion that they operate without machinery. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Cartier watches is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Cartier watches and other watches on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
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Shop for Cartier Watches on 1stDibs
Cartier Santos 40mm Black Steel Watch Ref. 271397BX
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Bold and unmistakably iconic, this Cartier Santos is a contemporary reinterpretation of a timeless classic. Featuring a 40mm black PVD-coated stainless steel case, this model offers ...
Category
2010s Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel
Cartier Paris Classic Tank LC GM Large Tank Watch circa 1973-1978
By Cartier
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Introduction:
This Vintage Cartier Paris Tank Watch is made in 18 Karat yellow gold and measures 30 x 25 mm with a 17-Jewel Cartier mechanical manual wind movement. The watch is tr...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold
Cartier Tank Louis W1529756 Ref 2441 18K Yellow Gold Box Paper 2025 Service
By Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: W1529756 / Ref 2441
Model: Cartier Tank Louis Large
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold
Band: Leather Band
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Dial: Ivory
Fa...
Category
Early 2000s Wrist Watches
Cartier Tank "Must de Cartier" Vermeil 925 Leather Wrist Watch circa 1970s
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Cartier Tank "Must de Cartier" Vermeil 925 Leather Wrist Watch from the 1970s epitomizes timeless elegance and vintage sophistication. Featuring a rich brown embossed leather ban...
Category
Late 20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Vermeil
Cartier Pasha Serviced 2025 / Excellent Condition
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
The Cartier Pasha ref. 2379 is a striking blend of bold design and refined elegance, showcasing the heritage of the prestigious Cartier brand. Featuring a 38mm stainless steel case w...
Category
Early 2000s European Modern Wrist Watches
Cartier Stainless Steel Midsize Panther WSPN0007 4016
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Stainless Steel Midsize Panther WSPN0007 4016 - Quartz. Panthere. Stainless Steel ( 27 x 37 mm ). Silver dial with black roman numerals. Stainless steel bracelet; will fit up...
Category