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Cartier

French

For its extraordinary range of bracelets, watches, rings and other adornments, French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the most well known and internationally revered jewelers in the world among clients both existing and aspirational.

Perhaps 1847 was not the ideal time to open a new watchmaking and jewelry business, as the French Revolution was not kind to the aristocracy who could afford such luxuries. Nevertheless, it was the year Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904) — who was born into poverty — founded his eponymous empire, assuming control of the workshop of watchmaker Adolphe Picard, under whom he had previously been employed as an assistant. Of course, in the beginning, it was a relatively modest affair, but by the late 1850s, Cartier had its first royal client, Princess Mathilde Bonaparte, niece of Napoleon Bonaparte, who commissioned the jeweler to design brooches, earrings and other accessories.

Under the leadership of Louis-François’s son, Alfred, who took over in 1874, business boomed. Royalty around the world wore Cartier pieces, including Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, the Maharaja of Patiala and King Edward VII, who had 27 tiaras made by the jewelry house for his coronation in 1902 and issued Cartier a royal warrant in 1904. (Today, the British royal family still dons Cartier pieces; Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, regularly sports a Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch.)

Cartier’s golden years, however, began when Alfred introduced his three sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, to the business. The brothers expanded Cartier globally: Louis reigned in Paris, Pierre in New York and Jacques in London, ensuring their brand’s consistency at their branches across the world. The trio also brought in such talents as Charles Jacqueau and Jeanne Toussaint.

One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, a large number of people were using only pocket watches.) Louis designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying.

Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I, 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.

On the jewelry side of the business, Cartier’s internationally renowned offerings include the Tutti Frutti collection, which featured colorful carved gemstones inspired by Jacques’s trip to India and grew in popularity during the Art Deco years; the panthère motif, which has been incorporated into everything from brooches to rings; and the Love bracelet, a minimal, modernist locking bangle inspired by medieval chastity belts that transformed fine jewelry.

While the Cartier family sold the business following the death of Pierre in 1964, the brand continues to innovate today, renewing old hits and creating new masterpieces.

Find contemporary and vintage Cartier watches, engagement rings, necklaces and other accessories on 1stDibs.

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Designer: Cartier
Cartier L' album Rare Hard Cover Illustrated Photography French Book c 2003
By Cartier
Located in University City, MO
Cartier L' Album Rare hard cover illustrated photography French book c 2003 The hard bound book is designed with a satin cloth exterior cover binding The unique book is comprised of...
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2010s French Cartier

A 1990s Elegant Bordeaux Leather and Brass Top Handle Bag by Cartier
By Cartier
Located in Aci Castello, IT
1990s Cartier Elegant Burgundy Leather and Gold-Tone Brass Top Handle Bag Embrace timeless sophistication with this exquisite 1990s Les Must de Cartier top handle bag, a quintessenti...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

1990s Cartier Vendome Gold Plated Black Resin Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
This rare pair of 1990s Cartier Vendome Gold Plated Black Resin Sunglasses feature a black resin frame and gradient purple lenses, "Cartier" engra...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Rare Pochette du Soir Soie 1920 Rare Silk Persian Evening Clutch in box
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
Cartier evening clutch circa 1920 entirely embroidered in multicolored silk with Persian motifs, the clasp in white gold, brilliant-cut diamonds and coral (rubrum, not subject to CIT...
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1920s French Cartier

Cartier Black Leather Evening Handbag
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Black leather evening handbag featuring floral embellishments, silver tone hardware with top frame closure and silver lambskin leather lining with inner slip pocket. Circa 2...
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Early 2000s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Temper 54mm 18k Gold Sunglasses Made in France
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Cartier Temper Gold With Light Brown Gradient (Uv Protection) Lenses. All Hallmarks. Cartier Signs On The Earpaddles. These Are Like A Pair Of Jewels On Your Nose With The...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Black Cabriolet Round Sunglasses circa 1991
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The 1991 Cartier Black Cabriolet Round Sunglasses exude timeless elegance and sophisticated style. Featuring a classic round frame design, these sunglasses are crafted with black ace...
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1990s French Cartier

Must de Cartier Vintage Leather Crossbody in Bordeaux
By Cartier
Located in Port Hope, ON
This is an iconic Cartier bag . This crossbody bag features a bordeaux leather body, a front exterior flap pocket, an adjustable flat leather strap, a Cartier logo, a top zip closure...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

Cartier Silk Evening Bag, with gold clasp
By Cartier
Located in Sharon, CT
Cartier Art Deco Evening Bag. Silk with gold thread makes an overall floral pattern. Gold clasp (untested) Silk interior with a gilt monogr...
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1920s French Cartier

Panther de Cartier Collectible Vintage Perfume Bottle in original Box Art Deco
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Must de Cartier Paris Collectible Vintage Empty Perfume Bottle in Original Box Art Deco Style. Vintage Original PARFUM Must de Cartier Paris, cir...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Wallet
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Bordeaux leather wallet featuring gold-plated corners, inside three credit card pockets and two plastic compartments and a golden hot-stamped Cartier signature. Circa: 1990s...
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1990s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Diabolo Gold & Black 53mm 24k Gold Sunglasses France
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
1991 Original Cartier Diabolo Art Deco Sunglasses with spotless amazing brown gold mirrored (uv protection). Frame has the famous real gold and white gold accents in the middle and ...
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1980s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Black Leather Panthere Evening Bag
By Cartier
Located in Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta
Beautiful vintage cartier panthere evening bag in black box like leather. Comes with detachable shoulder strap as well. Item shows very minor wear, however there are a few part of th...
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1990s Cartier

Les Must de Cartier Vintage Leather Suitcase Burgundy Bordeaux Luggage
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Vintage leather suitcase "Les Must de Cartier" burgundy Bordeaux luggage. Cartier maroon leather with zip around and gold-tone hardware suitca...
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1960s French Cartier

Must de Cartier Paris Leopard Blue Silk Scarf
By Cartier
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Collectors item Vintage Cartier scarf features scenes of gemstones, leopards, parrots and deers. Primary color is royal blue, green, orange deta...
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20th Century French Cartier

Cartier Keychain
By Cartier
Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT
Cartier Keychain Leather Rose color Cartier logo Card e pouch Cm 5 x 4 Worldwide express shipping included in the price !
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21st Century and Contemporary Cartier

Cartier Gold Buddha Amulet Luxury Desk Stationery Card and Envelope Set in Box
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Cartier Card and Envelope Set with the Iconic Cartier Gold Seated Buddha Pendant Jewelry Design. Authentic Luxury Cartier Stationery Card Letter and...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Shoulder Bag
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier bordeaux leather shoulder bag featuring front gold plated logo plaque with snap closure under, adjustable shoulder strap and buckle fastening,...
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1990s French Cartier

1980s Cartier Gold Tone Romance Santos Aviators
By Cartier
Located in Toronto, Ontario
These Cartier aviators are the ultimate pair of vintage sunglasses. Dating from the 1980s, these are the Romance Santos aviators. Gold frame and arms with Cartier screw details on the bridge and temples in a mix of silver and gold. A backwards 'C' logo also sits at the temples. Brown lenses. Markings on interior of arms and bridge. The screw details on this are very similar to the iconic Cartier Love collection. Excellent vintage condition, virtually no wear to lenses. Made in France. Originally mens glasses...
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1980s French Cartier

CARTIER Happy Birthday Bordeaux red hard calfskin logo boxy backpack
By Cartier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CARTIER Happy Birthday Bordeaux red hard calfskin logo boxy backpack Reference: TGAS/D00680 Brand: Cartier Model: Happy Birthday Material: Leather Color: Red Pattern: Logomania Closu...
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21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Cartier

Cartier Leather Fob Key Holder
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Leather Fob Key Holder from the 1980's. Leather fob embossed with house logo in signature Cartier tones. Some areas of wear which can be reconditioned. Signed Cartier on gil...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Paris Black CT0472S Panthère de Cartier Sunglasses 140 mm
By Cartier
Located in Rome, Rome
Add a touch of bold luxury to your style with these Occhiali da sole Panthère de Cartier sunglasses. Crafted from sleek black acetate, the frame features smooth gold-tone metal detai...
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2010s Italian Cartier

Cartier Vintage Aurore Gold Plated Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Glasgow, GB
Vintage gold plated sunglasses from Cartier. Soft squared shape. Brown tint on the lens. Light tortoise shell frames, gold plated legs and tortoise shell tips. Branded 'Cartier' gold...
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1980s Italian Cartier

CARTIER Vintage S Sapphire 55-18 gold plated frame green lens sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CARTIER Vintage S Sapphire 55-18 gold plated frame green lens sunglasses Reference: TGAS/E00083 Brand: Cartier Model: S Sapphire 55 18 135 Material: Metal Color: Gold, Green Pattern:...
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2010s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Platinum 62mm Vendome Gold Mirror Sunglasses France 18k 1983
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Cartier Aviator Vendome In The Ultra Rare Platinum Plated Sunglasses With Gold Mirror (Uv Protection) Lenses In A Full Cartier Set. Frame Is With The Famous Vendome Stripes O...
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1980s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Wood Bagatelle Round Gold & Precious Wood 55mm Brown Lens
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Original 1990 Cartier Bagatelle Wood Sunglasses from the coveted Precious Wood series with wood temples and honey brown (uv protection) lenses. The frame has the front and sides in ...
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1990s French Cartier

CARTIER Silk Scarf Blue and Salmon Precious Jewels New in Box Paris France
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
CARTIER New in Box Elegant Silk Scarf Must de Cartier Paris France. Les Must de Cartier Paris silk salmon scarf with precious jewels. Pale blue border with a salmon background. Desig...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

2000s Cartier Hong Kong Jewelry Panther Catalogue Lookbook
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Vintage Cartier brochure from Hong Kong. cover front and back is matt close up of panther print  and Cartier logo in gilt descriptions in Cantonese, 11 pages. Condition; vintage, 20...
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Early 2000s French Cartier

New Cartier Wood Bagatelle Round Gold & Precious Wood 55mm Brown Lens
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
New original 1990 Cartier Bagatelle Wood Sunglasses from the coveted Precious Wood series with wood temples and light slightly mirrored (uv protection) lenses. The frame has the fron...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux leather Clutch
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Bordeaux leather clutch featuring a back belt loop, gold-plated corners, inside logo lining, a front snap opening, a back zip pocket, an inside gold-tone stamp, delivered in ...
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21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier

Cartier Paris Silk Panther Hand Rolled Scarf in Cartier Box c 1990s 32 x 34
By Cartier
Located in University City, MO
Cartier Paris Silk panther hand rolled scarf in Cartier box c 1990s 32 x 34 in The elegant silk scarf is illustrated with a series of jeweled panther's with emerald green color eyes...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Oval St Honore Limited Series Sapphire 51mm Platine Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Cartier Oval St Honore Limited Series Sunglasses Adorned With Two Sapphire Gemstones On Each Side. All Hallmarks. Cartier Signs On The Ear Paddles. Both Arms Sport The Knot From Car...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Silk Clutch with Turquoise and Diamond Clasp
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier clutch of 19th Century Asian textile mixed with gold kid piping with turquoise ball clasp set with rose diamond.
7" x 5" x 1.5" 1920-30...
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Early 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier

CARTIER Paris Vintage Leather Suitcase Burgundy Bordeaux Luggage
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Vintage leather suitcase "Les Must de Cartier" burgundy Bordeaux luggage. Cartier Paris maroon leather with zip around and gold-tone hardware suitcase. Rare "Le Must de Cartier" leat...
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1960s French Cartier

Cartier Must de Cartier Men's Top Handle Briefcase
By Cartier
Located in Amman, JO
Refined and iconic, this Cartier Burgundy Leather Briefcase from the Must de Cartier collection is the epitome of timeless sophistication. Crafted in luxurious deep burgundy leather ...
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21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier

CARTIER 100% silk grey sheer diamond cuts print square scarf
By Cartier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CARTIER 100% silk grey sheer diamond cuts print square scarf Reference: SNKO/A00494 Brand: Cartier Material: Silk Color: Grey Pattern: Abstract Extra Details: Diamond cuts print. Mad...
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21st Century and Contemporary Italian Cartier

Vintage Cartier Sunset Black Medium Sunglasses 18k Gold France 1991
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
with grey (uv protection) lenses. . Frame has the famous real gold and white gold accents on the sides. All hallmarks. Cartier gold signs on the earpaddles. Both arms sport the C fr...
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1990s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Zebra Precious Wood Full Set Gold C Decor France Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Original Cartier Sunglasses with carved wood temples and solid brown uv protection lenses. Frame with the front and sides in 12k gold plat...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Vintage Sorbonne 49MM Gold Plated France Sunglasses, 1990
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
New 1990 Cartier Sorbonne Sunglasses with brown (uv protection) lenses. All hallmarks. Cartier gold signs on the ear paddles. These are like a pair of jewels on your nose. Please ...
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1990s French Cartier

New Vintage Cartier Ginger 48mm Gold Brushed Plated Sunglasses France
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
New Cartier Ginger brushed gold plated with light blue (uv protection) lenses. All hallmarks. Cartier silver signs on the earpaddles. These are like a pair of jewels on your nose w...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier "Byzantine" Belt or Necklace in Gold Vermeil, Signed, circa 1970
By Cartier
Located in McKinney, TX
An extremely rare gold vermeil belt by Cartier, circa 1970, also can be worn as a chunky statement necklace. This highly sought after and coveted belt is made from solid sterling si...
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1970s American Cartier

Cartier Oval St Honore Limited Series Ruby 49mm 18k Plated Sunglasses France
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Cartier Oval St Honore Limited Series Sunglasses Adorned With Two Ruby Gemstones On Each Side. All Hallmarks. Cartier Signs On The Ear Paddles. Both Arms Sport The Knot From Cartier...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Vintage Romance Vendome 56mm Platinum France Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Cartier Romance Vendome Platinum sunglasses with blue gradient (uv protection) lenses. Frame is with the front and sides in yellow and white gold. All hallmarks. Red enamel ...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Vintage Sterling Silver Mini Pepper and Salt Shakers Set
By Cartier
Located in Rome, Rome
Vintage Cartier mini salt & pepper shakers in sterling silver. One of the shaker has a gold wash lid. Presented in red case. Measurements (height): 1.25 inches - 3.2 cm / (length):1 ...
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20th Century French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Coin Purse
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Bordeaux leather coin purse featuring gold-plated corners, inside a coin compartment, a snap closure and a golden hot-stamped Cartier signature. Circa: 1990s In good vintage...
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1990s French Cartier

New Cartier Rimless C Decor Platine Precious Wood Full Set France Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Original Cartier Sunglasses with wood temples and mauve gradient uv protection lenses. Frame with the front and sides in platine plated C ...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Paris Poker or Bridge Cards in Red Original Box Vintage 1970
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Must De Cartier Paris Vintage Playing Poker or Bridge Cards in Red Original Box. Cartier playing cards, one deck plus joker, poker, bridge playing cards in Cartier red 2-doors case. Les Must De Cartier playing cards were only sold from 1972-1976. This silk-lined box of cards with 18-karat gilded corners, printed with the Les Must De Cartier logo, is a gift for the true collector. The box measures: 6 1/2" by 4 1/4" by 1 3/8" and is marked Cartier. Beautiful deep red color cards with golden accents, Cartier cameo monogram, and 18-karat gold splashed edges. These cards are beautiful and rare, a real treasure. Cartier playing cards in gilt-tooled leather red case, the inside marked "Les Must de Cartier, Paris". Genuine Cartier and marked "Cartier Paris". Cartier playing cards are Monaco grade for casinos and gaming each with the Cartier monogram, circa 1980s. Vintage Luxe Must De Cartier poker...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

Rare Vintage Cartier Mini Trinity Black Leather Zip Metal Handle Purse
By Cartier
Located in Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta
Beautiful vintage cartier zip trinity metal handle purse. Metal handles are in gold and silver. Beautiful vintage condition. Very well kept. Comes with its original box.
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Early 2000s Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Simple Card Holder
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Bordeaux leather simple card holder featuring one large central slot, gold-plated corners, and a golden hot-stamped Cartier signature. Circa: 1990s In good vintage condition...
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1990s French Cartier

CARTIER Trinity black smooth calfskin top metal handle mini bag
By Cartier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CARTIER Trinity black smooth calfskin top metal handle mini bag Reference: TGAS/D00679 Brand: Cartier Model: Trinity Material: Leather Color: Black, Red Pattern: Solid Closure: Zip L...
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21st Century and Contemporary Cartier

Cartier Iconic Panther Design Card and Envelope Set Luxury Desk Stationery
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Cartier Card and Envelope Set with the Iconic Panther Jewelry Design. Authentic Luxury Cartier Stationery Card Letter and Envelope Black Panther, li...
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1990s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Giverny Gold and Wood Large 51/20 Gradient Brown Lens Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Original Rare Yellow and White Gold 1992 Cartier classy Giverny Sunglasses with rosewood temples and light brown gradient lenses. Frame with the front and sides in yellow gold. A...
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1980s Cartier

New Cartier Rimless C Decor Monogram Precious Wood Full Set France Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Original Cartier Sunglasses with monogram wood temples and brown uv protection lenses. Frame with the front and sides in platine. All hallmarks. Cartier signs on the ear ...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Belt
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier bordeaux leather belt featuring a gold tone and silver tone metal logo buckle, inside logo stamp. Circa 2000s Size: 65FR Made in France. In...
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Late 20th Century French Cartier

Cartier Aspen Vintage Gray Oval Sunglasses c1990s
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Cartier Aspen Vintage Gray Oval Sunglasses c1990s in very good condition. light wear consistent with age and gentle use. please see photos for details. measurements: 5" wide x1.5" ta...
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1990s Cartier

Vintage Cartier France Louis Vintage Heavy Gold Plated Diamonds 55mm Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
In Excellent condition Cartier Louis Diamonds rounded sunglasses with 2 real diamonds on the side of the frame. Mauve gradient (uv protection) lenses. Frame is with the famous yello...
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1980s French Cartier

Cartier Bordeaux Leather Bordeaux Pocket Mirror
By Cartier
Located in Paris, FR
Cartier Bordeaux leather pocket mirror featuring a rectangular shape, a mirror inside, gold-plated corners, and a golden hot-stamped Cartier signature. Circa: 1990s In good vintage...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Wood Malmaison Precious Banana Light Wood and Gold 56mm Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Original 1990 Cartier Malmaison hardwood banana light wood sunglasses with honey brown Cartier (uv protection) lenses. Front and sides in yellow and...
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1990s French Cartier

Cartier Paris Panther Design Card and Envelope Luxury Set Desk Stationery
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Cartier Paris Card and Envelope Set of 9 with the Iconic Panther Jewelry Design. Authentic Luxury Cartier Stationery Card Letter and Envelope Black ...
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1990s French Cartier

Vintage Cartier Bengali Precious Wood Full Set Platine C Decor France Sunglasses
By Cartier
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Vintage Original Cartier Sunglasses with carved wood temples and solid grey uv protection lenses. Frame with the front and sides in platine. All...
Category

1980s French Cartier

Cartier fashion for sale on 1stDibs.

Find an extraordinary range of authentic Cartier fashion available on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing our collection of unique vintage and designer fashion to elevate your daily look or to introduce new colors to the dazzling formal wear in your wardrobe, this designer’s body of work includes elements of blue, purple, red and other tones. Most of the items here were designed during the 20th Century, but you can find examples that were created as recently as the 21st Century and Contemporary. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Claude Montana, Alain Mikli, and Claude Montana Paris appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Cartier fashion from top boutiques around the world. Cartier fashion prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $119 and tops out at $69,680, while the average work can sell for $1,000.
Questions About Cartier
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Cartier is famous for producing jewelry and watches out of rare and luxury-grade materials and creating innovative designs, often packed with symbolism. Some of the jeweler's most famous pieces include the modern Love and Trinity bracelets and its custom-made antique and vintage jewelry like the Crocodile and Patiala necklaces. Find a range of Cartier jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    As one of the top luxury jewelry houses in the world, Cartier uses some of the finest quality materials. The company uses 18k gold in their jewelry and real diamonds.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Cartier watches are considered luxury watches. Cartier is a noted jeweler, taking that attention to detail and access to high-quality metals and jewels to their watches—they spare no expense and are highly desirable. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Cartier watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    No, Cartier is not the same as Rolex. Louis-François Cartier founded Cartier in Paris in 1847. Some of its most iconic watches include the Tank, the Santos, the Ballon Bleu, the Calibre de Cartier and the Drive de Cartier. Hans Wilsdorf established Rolex in London in 1905. Today, the maker is well-known for its sophisticated watches, including the Submariner, the Daytona, the DateJust, the Oyster Perpetual and the GMT-Master II. Find a selection of Cartier and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    There are a few reasons why Cartier is so popular. For one thing, the French luxury house is known for its very long history of unparalleled prestige and quality craftsmanship. Cartier has been producing extraordinary jewelry, watches and accessories since 1847. While jewelry lovers have long been enthusiastic about Cartier’s elegant and streamlined designs for bracelets, rings, necklaces and other pieces, the brand is also known for innovation. It pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry, and its artisans were so mindful of trends in fashion that the house became the official jewelry supplier to King Edward VII. Later, Cartier’s Art Deco-era pieces would help define the movement with which they are associated. One of the brand’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch, one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. Today’s influencers continue to help popularize the brand, increasing the demand for certain pieces like Cartier buffalo horn sunglasses and the Cartier Love bracelet, an icon of modernist jewelry. Find a wide range of Cartier watches, jewelry and eyewear on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Cartier Vermeil means a timepiece made by the French luxury jewelry house of Cartier out of a material called vermeil. It is a precious metal produced by combining genuine gold and silver. Shop a variety of Cartier Vermeil watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The meaning of Cartier Vendôme varies. Most often, the term describes a line of watches made by the French luxury jewelry house. However, the company has also produced sunglasses and wedding jewelry with the style name Cartier Vendôme. Shop a variety of Cartier Vendôme watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
    The Cartier logo is a pair of interlocking Cs. However, many people associate the panther with the French luxury jewelry maker more than its actual logo. Louis Cartier incorporated the feline figure into its design lexicon. In 1914, Cartier hired illustrator George Barbier to design advertisements for the jewelry house. Barbier drafted a drawing that featured a glamorous woman with an elegant panther at her feet, and Cartier loved it. He had an additional connection to the panther in the form of his alleged romantic interest, fellow Cartier designer Jeanne Toussaint, who adored the animal so much that she decorated her apartment with furs and donned a coat of panther fur. Cartier gave her the long-lasting nickname Panthère. Since then, Cartier has offered watches, bracelets, necklaces, brooches and earrings inspired by the panther. Find a diverse assortment of Cartier jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Today, the Cartier symbol, or logo, is the luxury house's name written in a clean serif font that mimics cursive handwriting. Typically, the logo is either black on white or white on a black background. Its refined and understated appearance references the high standards that have long been associated with this celebrated brand.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    One of the reasons Cartier is so expensive is because, since its inception in 1847, the brand has had a massive celebrity fan base that spans royals, movie stars, singers and socialites. The brand also uses the highest quality metals and gems in their pieces, rendering them expensive to produce. Lastly, most Cartier pieces are easy to identify, making brand recognition a key factor in the brand's exclusivity.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
    Cartier is special for at least a few reasons. The French luxury brand is one of the most well-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world.

    Cartier has helped create style trends over the course of its long history, including playing a prominent role in defining Art Deco jewelry. The brand designed one of the first modern wristwatches for men — the Santos de Cartier — and its Panthère motif and Love bracelet are universally renowned among lovers of fine jewelry.

    Additionally, it should come as no surprise that Cartier engagement rings are among the most desirable on the jewelry market for those hoping to be betrothed. The house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry in the late 1800s, identifying the strong, lustrous metal as ideal for bringing out the true qualities of diamonds.

    Find Cartier jewelry for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 1, 2024
    Yes, some Cartier watches are automatic but the legendary French luxury house also creates collections that include watches with quartz movements. Cartier’s iconic Tank collection, which includes the Tank Française, the Tank Louis Cartier and other models, features both quartz and automatic options for all kinds of collectors. Each of the watches in the Panthère collection, however, carries a quartz movement.

    While quartz watches are powered by a pre-installed battery and a high-frequency quartz crystal, automatic watches rely on a spring system and are self-winding. An automatic watch does not have a battery and is recharged on the wrist owing to the wearer’s movements during the day.

    It was Louis Cartier, grandson of Cartier founder Louis-François Cartier, who was responsible for bringing watchmaking to the venerable maison when he presented Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont with a wristwatch in 1904. 

    Although the pocket watch was the de rigueur men’s accessory of the day, Santos-Dumont found his own pocket watch hard to consult while keeping his plane aloft. Louis fashioned a timepiece with a flat, square case on a leather strap that could be referred to easily at a glance. Named in honor of Louis’s friend, the Santos was eventually produced for sale in 1911. 

    Find vintage Cartier watches for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    No, not all Cartier rings are gold. Although the luxury jewelry maker produces many white, rose and yellow gold pieces, some rings are platinum. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry in the late 1800s, identifying the strong, lustrous metal as ideal for bringing out the true qualities of diamonds. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier rings.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
    Yes, Cartier diamonds are real. The French luxury jewelry maker follows stringent standards when selecting the diamonds that go into its pieces. For example, the central brilliant cut diamonds in Cartier rings that are over 0.3 carats in weight must be classified as Very Good or Excellent to be used by the brand, and Cartier rarely chooses diamonds with clarity ratings below VS2 or color ratings below H. Shop a selection of Cartier diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How to wear Cartier earrings depends on your personal preferences. Small hoops and studs can balance chunky statement necklaces, while dramatic drops and oversized hoops can become the bold focal point of an outfit. Shop a variety of Cartier earrings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
    Whether a Cartier watch is bigger than a Rolex watch depends on the particular timepiece. Cartier offers watches in sizes ranging from 28 millimeters for women to 44 millimeters for men. Rolex's smallest women's watch is bigger than Cartier's at 31 millimeters, but the watchmaker's largest men's watch is only 43 millimeters. Find a variety of Rolex and Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
    To authenticate a Cartier lighter, locate the serial number. Then, contact Cartier’s customer service team to assess whether it is a genuine serial number and whether the product type and style match your piece. Check the official Cartier website for current contact information. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Cartier lighters.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Cartier does make earrings as well as a slew of other exquisite and high-end pieces of jewelry. Established in 1847 in Paris, France, this luxury goods brand is known throughout the world for its jewelry and watches. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Cartier pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
    While the Panthère de Cartier watch collection was initially launched in 1983, Cartier included panther spots (and only the spots) in diamonds and onyx on at least one women’s watch in 1914 and another in 1915. These creations were conceived by the Cartier designer Charles Jacqueau. The cat’s major breakthrough came in 1949, with a brooch on which Jeanne Toussaint worked hand in glove with designer Peter Lemarchand. The luxury jewelry house now offers dozens of versions of the Panthère de Cartier timepiece, including double- and triple-wrap bracelets, a series of cuffs and a diamond-encrusted panther spot version. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier pieces from some of the world's top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    The original Cartier Tank watch, which was emblematic of a stark departure from the renowned jewelry house’s curved and round watch faces in that its case resembled the FT-17’s cockpit, served as a sleek update to the Santos watch. Crafted in 1917, one year before the Great War came to a close, Cartier’s Tank watch reportedly borrowed its clean, sharp lines and boxy silhouette from France’s legendary Renault FT-17 light tank, itself a compact and extraordinary design that inspired numerous copies. When the Tank watch went to market, Cartier offered a limited run in Paris. After those quickly sold, it was given a name, the Tank Normale. The timepiece took off in popularity, but only slightly more than 30 were made in 1920 and annual production has been slow over the years since then. Find Cartier Tank watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
    Which Cartier watch is the most iconic is open to debate. One of the French luxury brand's most influential watches is the Cartier Tank, which debuted in 1917. A women's watch, the Cartier Panthere is another of the brand's legendary designs. It was introduced in 1914, and its original design drew inspiration from a painting of a panther by artist George Barbier. Shop a large collection of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Unnamed designers working for Cartier designed the Cartier Ecrou bracelet. They based the design for the jewelry released in 2017 on that of the Juste un Clou that Aldo Cipullo created for the brand in 1971. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Cartier Ecrou bracelets.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Cartier pieces may be cheaper in Paris than they are in the U.S., but that's because of the exchange rate. Cartier doesn't price the pieces depending on the country.

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