Cartier Watches

King Edward VII of England called Cartier the “jeweler of kings and king of jewelers.” Established in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the French maison was from its beginnings a darling of the aristocracy. But Cartier is also known for its luxury watches. It was the founder’s grandson, Louis Cartier, who cemented its reputation as a trendsetting watchmaker. In 1904, he made one of the first men's wristwatches for a friend, Brazilian coffee-plantation heir Alberto Santos-Dumont.

Although the pocket watch was the de rigueur men’s accessory of the day, Santos-Dumont, a pioneering aviator, found his own 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.

Deemed daring and modern, men’s wristwatches became a vogue among the elite. Capitalizing on his success, Louis released the Tonneau in 1906. Its barrel-shaped case, another departure from the traditional round pocket watch, was embraced by other savvy watchmakers and remains a perennial favorite.

However, the Tonneau was soon eclipsed by Louis’s most iconic design. During the First World War, he was so impressed by the Renault tanks he saw on the Western Front that in 1917, he created a watch inspired by their industrial forms — the Cartier Tank watch.

Louis’s inventive streak didn’t stop at men’s watches. In 1906, he took a traditional round ladies’ case and stretched it into an elegant oval. The style was later dubbed the Baignoire for its resemblance to the elongated curves of a bathtub. In 1914, he commissioned artist George Barbier to illustrate an invitation to an upcoming exhibition. The resulting Dame à la panthère marked the debut of the animal that would become synonymous with the house.

That same year, Cartier introduced its first jewel incorporating the panther motif: a diamond watch with onyx spots, the inspiration for the current women’s Panthère model. After Louis’s death, in 1942, his legacy continued in the brand’s penchant for timepieces with unusual shapes. Its ultimate expression may be the Dalí-esque Crash watch, introduced in 1967 and said to be modeled on a Baignoire pulled from a car wreck.

Browse an expansive collection of unique Cartier wristwatches and pocket watches today on 1stDibs.

Creator: Cartier

Jewelry Type: Fashion Jewelry

Cartier Montre Santos Lady Acier Or 1990s Automatic Steel Gold Santos Lady Watch

$5,480

Cartier Montre Santos Lady Acier Or 1990s Automatic Steel Gold Santos Lady Watch

By Cartier

Located in PARIS, FR

Cartier Santos Lady watch in steel and 18K yellow gold, automatic movement, white dial with railway track minute markers and Roman numerals, adjustable steel and yellow gold bracelet...

Category

1990s French Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold, Steel

CARTIER Roadster SM W62017V3 pink dial silver stainless steel ladies watch

$3,000

CARTIER Roadster SM W62017V3 pink dial silver stainless steel ladies watch

By Cartier

Located in Hong Kong, NT

CARTIER Roadster SM W62017V3 pink dial silver stainless steel ladies watch Reference: CAWG/A00318 Brand: Cartier Model: Roadster W62017V3 Material: Stainless Steel Color: Pink, Silve...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier 1990 Montre Or Jaune Baignoire PM Yellow Gold Casque d Or Bracelet Watch

$27,249

Cartier 1990 Montre Or Jaune Baignoire PM Yellow Gold Casque d Or Bracelet Watch

By Cartier

Located in PARIS, FR

Cartier watch circa 1990 Baignoire model in yellow gold, oval case (legendary), white dial with Roman numerals, quartz movement, blued steel hands, winding mechanism or crown decorat...

Category

1990s French Art Deco Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

1985 Extremely Rare Cartier Pasha 18KT Gold

$11,549

1985 Extremely Rare Cartier Pasha 18KT Gold

By Cartier

Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT

Extremely rare 1985 Cartier Pasha In 1985 Gerald Genta redesigned this iconic watch and this example right here is exactly belonging to the very first series, very hard to find . Th...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Cartier Baignoire Mini 18K Yellow Gold Bangle Watch 17

$20,000

Cartier Baignoire Mini 18K Yellow Gold Bangle Watch 17

By Cartier

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Sold out worldwide with a waitlist extending over a year, this petite timepiece is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Skilfully created in the house's Swiss atelier, it boasts 18-karat ...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Vintage 18k Gold Square Roman Watch - '70S

$9,744

Cartier Vintage 18k Gold Square Roman Watch - '70S

By Cartier

Located in Milano, IT

An exquisite vintage Cartier timepiece, masterfully crafted in 18k yellow gold. Featuring a sleek square case, minimalist dial with Roman numerals, and a finely textured integrated b...

Category

1970s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch with moon phase automatic

$6,893

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch with moon phase automatic

By Cartier

Located in London, England

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch, 37 mm. Mechanical movement with automatic winding, moon phases. Case in steel, fluted crown set with a synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel. Silvered guillo...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Ballon Blanc 18 Karat Gold Diamond Bezel Mother of Pearl Dial Watch

$34,500

Cartier Ballon Blanc 18 Karat Gold Diamond Bezel Mother of Pearl Dial Watch

By Cartier

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

Beautiful Cartier 18K gold wristwatch from Cartier’s Ballon Blanc collection with the most stunning diamond as the focal point! Do not miss out on this timelessly elegant Cartier diamond watch...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond

90's Cartier Must 21 Watch

$1,672

90's Cartier Must 21 Watch

By Cartier

Located in Paris, FR

Beautiful vintage Cartier Must 21 steel watch Quartz Condition : good Made in Switzerland Model: Must 21 Material : mat and shiny steel Hardware : steel and gold plated metal Moveme...

Category

1990s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold Plate, Steel

Vintage Cartier 18k Gold Diamond Braided Watch

$25,000

Vintage Cartier 18k Gold Diamond Braided Watch

By Cartier

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Cartier 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Longines Movement Wristwatch Company: Cartier Movement: Longines Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Condition: Excellent Year Of Manufacture: Circa 1940s Le...

Category

1950s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vetta Stop Second, Antimagnetique, Rare Watch, 1950s

$2,391Sale Price|24% Off

Dm 1.5 in

Vetta Stop Second, Antimagnetique, Rare Watch, 1950s

Located in Roma, Lazio

Vetta Stop Second, Antimagnetique, rare, 50’ Movement and functions: hand-winding cal. E1168 stop seconds Case: stainless steel 38 mm Dial: silver cream yg indexes and numerals...

Category

1950s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel

Maurice Lacroix Miros Steel Silver Dial Quartz Mens Watch MI1028-SS002-130

$1,012Sale Price|24% Off

Maurice Lacroix Miros Steel Silver Dial Quartz Mens Watch MI1028-SS002-130

By Maurice Lacroix

Located in New York, NY

The watch has never been worn or used. Comes with an original box and papers. The box doesn't have an outer case, and the interior and pillow are damaged. Brand: Maurice Lacroix Type: Wristwatch Department: Men Model Number: MI1028-SS002-130 Country/Region of Manufacture: Switzerland Style: Sport Model: Maurice Lacroix Miros Vintage...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel

1972 Omega Constellation Mens Retro Automatic Chronometer Bracelet Watch - SS

$1,995

H 1.68 in W 1.38 in

1972 Omega Constellation Mens Retro Automatic Chronometer Bracelet Watch - SS

By Omega

Located in Suwanee, GA

NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU? We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Unisex 14k Yellow Gold Zodiac Hermetic 33mm Mechanical Swiss Wrist Watch

$1,498

Dm 1.3 in

Vintage Unisex 14k Yellow Gold Zodiac Hermetic 33mm Mechanical Swiss Wrist Watch

By Zodiac Watch Company

Located in Montclair, NJ

Watchmaker: Zodiac Model: Hermetic Movement: Mechanical - Manual Wind Case Material: Solid 14k Yellow Gold Case Diameter: 33mm (not including crown) Case Height: 37.4mm (lug to lug...

Category

20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 35mm 14k Solid Gold Mens 1970s Automatic RA674

$8,320Sale Price|20% Off

W 1.38 in

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 35mm 14k Solid Gold Mens 1970s Automatic RA674

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Timeless luxury, Men's Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref.1503 solid 14k gold automatic, c.1970s, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rol...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Cartier Pasha Miss Pasha Steel Pink Dial Ladies Watch W3140008 Diamond Bezel

$5,115

Dm 1.07 in

Cartier Pasha Miss Pasha Steel Pink Dial Ladies Watch W3140008 Diamond Bezel

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

This watch has been professionally polished, serviced and is in excellent overall condition. There are absolutely no visible scratches or blemishes. Diamonds were custom set, 100% na...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel

Omega Steel Open Faced Enamel Dial Pocket Watch from 1920's

$1,125

Omega Steel Open Faced Enamel Dial Pocket Watch from 1920's

By Omega

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Omega Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel Silver CIRCA / YEAR: 1928 / 29 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 49mm MOVEMENT / C...

Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Cartier Watches

2002 Rolex Ladies DateJust Two Tone Blue Diamond Dial Watch 79173 #23237

$7,812

Dm 1.03 in

2002 Rolex Ladies DateJust Two Tone Blue Diamond Dial Watch 79173 #23237

By Rolex

Located in Washington Depot, CT

2002 Rolex Ladies Datejust Watch Model: 79173 Serial: Y611504 This classic Rolex ladies watch is set in stainless steel with 18K gold bezel and gold accents on oyster band 26mm ca...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Gucci G-Chrono XL Steel Chronograph Black Dial Quartz Mens Watch YA101202

$799Sale Price|20% Off

Gucci G-Chrono XL Steel Chronograph Black Dial Quartz Mens Watch YA101202

By Gucci

Located in New York, NY

New with Defects Gucci G-Chrono XL Quartz Watch YA101202. The Watch Has a few Insignificant Tiny Scratches or Dents on the bezel. This Beautiful Timepiece is Powered by Quartz (Batte...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Vintage 14k Yellow Gold Bulova Accutron 34mm Date Quartz Wrist Watch Ref. M9

$1,880

H 1.58 in W 1.34 in

Vintage 14k Yellow Gold Bulova Accutron 34mm Date Quartz Wrist Watch Ref. M9

By Bulova

Located in Montclair, NJ

Watchmaker: Bulova Reference No.: M9 Movement: Quartz - American Made Case Dimensions: 34mm (width - not including crown) - 40mm (lug to lug) Case Thickness: 10mm Strap: Brown Genuin...

Category

20th Century American Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Breitling Transocean Chronograph Unitime AB0510U4/BB62 World Time Box & Papers

$5,583

H 1.82 in W 1.82 in Dm 1.82 in

Breitling Transocean Chronograph Unitime AB0510U4/BB62 World Time Box & Papers

By Breitling

Located in London, GB

Breitling Transocean Chronograph Unitime AB0510U4/BB62 World Time Box & Papers 9.5/10 Condition A beautifully engineered global travel companion, the Breitling Transocean Chronog...

Category

Late 20th Century European Cartier Watches

Vintage Jean Perret 18k Gold Blue & White Enamel Hidden Watch Cuff Bracelet

$3,450

Vintage Jean Perret 18k Gold Blue & White Enamel Hidden Watch Cuff Bracelet

Located in Montclair, NJ

Watchmaker: Jean Perret Case & Bracelet Material: Solid 18k Yellow Gold w/ Blue & White Enamel Work Case Size: 14.8x8.3mm (not counting the crown) Case Thi...

Category

20th Century Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel

Previously Available Items

1960s Cartier Baignoire Watch

Sold

1960s Cartier Baignoire Watch

By Cartier

Located in Milano, IT

This rare vintage Baignoire de Cartier watch in small model features a curved 18K yellow gold case, sapphire cabochon crown, and a warm golden dial with blued-steel hands. Powered by...

Category

1960s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

Vintage Cartier pendulette gold-plated alarm clock

Sold

H 2.56 in W 0.4 in Dm 1.97 in

Vintage Cartier pendulette gold-plated alarm clock

By Cartier

Located in VALLADOLID, ES

One of a kind and gorgeous table or travel alarm clock from the prestigious French brand Cartier. Square-shaped, gold-plated steel, and deep blue enamel. Its design features a recta...

Category

1980s French Classical Roman Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold Plate, Enamel

Cartier Tank "Must de Cartier" Vermeil 925 Black Leather Wrist Watch circa 1970s

Sold

H 1 in W 0.75 in

Cartier Tank "Must de Cartier" Vermeil 925 Black 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 black embossed leather band, it...

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier Vintage Chevron Bracelet Watch - '50s

Sold

Cartier Vintage Chevron Bracelet Watch - '50s

By Cartier

Located in Milano, IT

This rare Cartier timepiece from the 1950s is crafted in 18k yellow gold and features a beautifully textured chevron-pattern bracelet. The oval case measures approximately 1.3 cm in ...

Category

1950s Vintage Cartier Watches

Cartier Tank "Must de Cartier" Vermeil 925 Leather Wrist Watch circa 1970s

Sold

H 0.75 in W 0.5 in

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 Cartier Watches

Materials

Vermeil

Cartier Santos XL Fully Pave Diamond & Stainless Steel Watch With Arab

Sold

Dm 15.75 in

Cartier Santos XL Fully Pave Diamond & Stainless Steel Watch With Arab

By Cartier

Located in London, GB

Timeless Piece - Cartier Santos XL Fully Pave Diamond & Stainless Steel Watch With Arabic Numerals This iced out timeless piece is made of stainless steel and fully set with over 29...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch with moon phase automatic

Sold

W 1.46 in

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch with moon phase automatic

By Cartier

Located in London, England

Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch, 37 mm. Mechanical movement with automatic winding, moon phases. Case in steel, fluted crown set with a synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel. Silvered guillo...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Must 21 Chronoscaph Stainless Steel Watch

Sold

Dm 1.5 in

Cartier Must 21 Chronoscaph Stainless Steel Watch

By Cartier

Located in London, GB

Cartier Must 21 Chronoscaph Stainless Steel Watch Stainless steel case with roman numerals and black baton dial with iconic Cartier logo pattern. Featuring a date indicator at 4 o’...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

2006 Cartier Tank Française Ref. 2384 Full Set

Sold

2006 Cartier Tank Française Ref. 2384 Full Set

By Cartier

Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT

Ref. 2384 Year 2006 Stainless steel White dial, roman numbers Quartz mechanism (brand new battery) Case 20 x 25 mm With original warranty and box Unique owner Fast and insured worldw...

Category

Early 2000s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Santos Demoiselle Pink Mother Of Pearl Stainless Steel Watch

Sold

Cartier Santos Demoiselle Pink Mother Of Pearl Stainless Steel Watch

By Cartier

Located in London, GB

Cartier Santos Demoiselle Pink Mother Of Pearl Stainless Steel Watch Swiss made watch designed with Pearl watch face, Roman num...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Baignoire pink Gold Diamond Ladies Watch

Sold

H 17.33 in W 13.39 in

Cartier Baignoire pink Gold Diamond Ladies Watch

By Cartier

Located in London, England

Cartier Baignoire XL pink Gold Diamond Ladies Watch. CARTIER Baignoire Watch18K rose Gold, pink mat crocodile straps. Manual winding Cartier Baignoire lady's wristwatch. Oval case i...

Category

2010s French Art Nouveau Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Cartier Silver Stainless Steel Tank Solo Watch

Sold

Cartier Silver Stainless Steel Tank Solo Watch

By Cartier

Located in London, GB

CONDITION is Very good. Minimal wear to watch is evident. Minimal scratches to overall steel hardware on this used Cartier designer resale item. This item comes with original box. ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Cartier Watches

Materials

Silver, Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier watches for sale on 1stDibs

1stDibs offers a range of Cartier watches. These unique items were designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While searching for the most stylish antique or vintage Cartier jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Cartier diamond watches can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, from our inventory of 221. This collection contains 1,093 pieces as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. Modern and contemporary are among the most popular styles of Cartier watches on 1stDibs. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 21st Century and Contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider watches by Bulgari, Patek Philippe and Chopard. Cartier watches can vary in price, gemstone, time period and other attributes. Price for these items starts at US$795 and tops out at US$1,400,000, while pieces like these can sell for US$7,916 on average.

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Questions About Cartier Watches

Is a Cartier watch worth it?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
Many watch lovers believe that Cartier watches are worth it. The French luxury house is one of the most well-known and internationally revered watchmakers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch, one of the world's first modern wrist watches for men. Cartier’s other famous watches include the Tank watch, inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I. 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 for sale on 1stDibs.
Are Cartier watches automatic?
1 Answer
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.
What does Must de Cartier mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
Must de Cartier means "Cartier, It's a Must." The advertising slogan of the French luxury jewelry maker was created by former Cartier President Robert Hocq during the 1970s. In 1974, he partnered with Alain-Dominique Perrin to create a line of watches inspired by the saying, the full text of which is "Le Must de Cartier." On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of Cartier watches.
What Cartier watch did Princess Diana wear?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Princess Diana actually wore more than one Cartier watch. The Princess of Wales's father, John Spencer, the 8th Earl Spencer, reportedly once gifted her a Cartier Louis Tank watch with an alligator leather strap. During the late 1990s, Diana frequently sported a yellow gold Tank Française. Prince Andrew received the watch after her death and presented it to his now-wife Meghan Markle. Also, she sometimes wore a Panthère de Cartier, a gift from Dodi Fayed. Shop a wide range of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
Who makes Cartier watch movements?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Who makes Cartier watch movements varies. The luxury maker does produce some of its movements in-house, such as the 1904 MC, the 1847 MC and the 1917 MC. In addition, it has also utilized movements manufactured by other makers, including ETA, Piaget, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Audemars Piguet, Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier, Rolex and Girard-Perregaux. Find a diverse assortment of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
Are Cartier watches popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
While trends in collecting do change over time, Cartier watches generally remain popular. The luxury maker produces 400,000 to 500,000 timepieces per year and was the second-largest luxury maker in terms of gross sales after Rolex in several years, including 2023. Some of the best-known Cartier watches are the Cartier Tank, the Panthère de Cartier, the Santos de Cartier, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier, the Calibre de Cartier, the Drive de Cartier and the Pasha de Cartier. Find a wide range of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
What watch is the Cartier Crash based on?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
The watch that the Cartier Crash may have been based on is the Cartier Maxi Oval, also known as the Baignoire Allongée. One theory is that the watch's creators, Jean-Jacques Cartier and Rupert Emmerson, became inspired to create the Crash after seeing a damaged Maxi Oval that a customer brought in after he was involved in a car accident. Another theory is that the designers drew inspiration from Salvador Dalí's famous work, The Persistence of Memory. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Cartier watches.
How much does the Cartier Crash watch cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
How much the Cartier Crash watch costs varies. Contemporary editions of the avant-garde timepiece typically sell for tens of thousands of dollars, while select vintage and limited-edition models may fetch selling prices of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Jean-Jacques Cartier and Rupert Emmerson designed the Crash watch, which debuted in 1967. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Cartier watches.
Why Cartier is so expensive?
1 Answer
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.
Why is Cartier so popular?
1 Answer
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.
What is Cartier Vermeil?
1 Answer
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.
What is Cartier Vendôme?
1 Answer
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.
What is Cartier famous for?
1 Answer
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.
What is the Cartier logo?
1 Answer
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.
What is the Cartier symbol?
1 Answer
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.
What is so special about Cartier?
1 Answer
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.
Is Cartier the same as Rolex?
1 Answer
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.
Are Cartier watches respected?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023
Yes, Cartier watches are respected by many collectors due to their innovative designs, reliable mechanisms and fine craftsmanship. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch—one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, the popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying. Another of Cartier’s famous timepieces is the Tank watch, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of Cartier watches.
What quality are Cartier diamonds?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Cartier only uses high-quality diamonds in their jewelry designs. The brand works only with gemstones that rank as Very Good or Excellent for cut and between IF and VS2 for clarity according to GIA standards. On 1stDibs, find a range of Cartier diamond jewelry.
What is the most popular Cartier jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
The most popular Cartier jewelry is open to debate. Because the French luxury jewelry maker has produced many iconic lines and style trends change over time, it can be difficult to state which is the most popular at any given moment. Some highly sought-after Cartier pieces include those from the Love, Trinity and Panthère de Cartier collections, as well as the Juste un Clou bracelet. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Cartier jewelry.
What is special about the Cartier Santos?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
There are a few things that are special about the Cartier Santos watch. One is its history. When it debuted in 1904, it was one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. Louis Cartier designed the timepiece for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying. A unique feature of the Santos is that it comes with both a bracelet and a leather strap, plus a tool that lets you easily swap out the components. Also, many people appreciate the watch’s timeless details, which haven't changed much since its inception. Shop a large selection of Cartier Santos watches on 1stDibs.
What diamonds does Cartier use?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Cartier exclusively uses diamonds from classes D through H to ensure that the gemstones are colorless and have little or no fluorescence. Their high standards contribute to the quality of the luxury jewelry maker's pieces. Shop a collection of Cartier diamonds from some of the world’s top jewelers on 1stDibs.
Who designed the Cartier Crash?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Rupert Emmerson and Jean-Jacques Cartier designed the Cartier Crash watch. It debuted in 1967. The classic Cartier Oval provided a starting point for the watch, and its crumpled dial reflected the mod fashion trends of the 1960s. Shop a variety of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
What does the Cartier panther symbolize?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The Cartier panther, or panthère, is a symbol of fierce femininity, luxury and sophistication. Cartier continues to produce high-quality jewelry that features its panthère motif, highlighting the brand's creativity. Find a wide range of Cartier pieces, including panthère, on 1stDibs.
What gold is a Cartier bracelet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Most Cartier bracelets are 18-karat gold. Some pieces like the acclaimed Love bracelet come in yellow, rose and white gold. In addition, Cartier makes some of their bracelets out of platinum. On 1stDibs, you can shop a collection of Cartier bracelets.
What is Cartier jewelry made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024
Cartier jewelry is made of a variety of carefully selected materials. For metals, the French luxury jewelry maker typically uses platinum or 18-karat yellow, white or rose gold. With respect to the color of its diamonds, Cartier selects diamonds from classes D through H to ensure that the gemstones are colorless and have little or no fluorescence. Some pieces feature genuine leather, Akoya pearls and other fine materials. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of Cartier jewelry.
What is the classic Cartier watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
There are a range of Cartier watches that are highly iconic to the brand. The Cartier Tank watch is one of the classic options. The Panthère de Cartier and Clé de Cartier watches are also popular pieces. Shop a range of authentic Cartier watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
Is it worth it to buy Cartier?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
Many jewelry and watch lovers believe that buying a Cartier is worth it. The French luxury house is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Cartier pieces 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 a diverse assortment of Cartier watches and jewelry on 1stDibs.

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