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

$5,511

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

$27,406

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

$11,615

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

$9,800

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

$6,956

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

$1,681

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

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 5146/1J-001 Mens Watch Box Papers

Sold|~~$47,999~~

Dm 1.54 in

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 5146/1J-001 Mens Watch Box Papers

By Patek Philippe

Located in Great Neck, NY

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 5146/1J-001 Mens Watch. 39mm 18K yellow gold case. 18K yellow gold bezel. Cream dial with luminous white gold hands and white gold index & Arabic numer...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Lucerne Oversized Watch, circa 1970s

$700

Lucerne Oversized Watch, circa 1970s

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Lucerne Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco Oversized METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Le...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Zodiac Sea Wolf Stainless Steel Automatic Diver Wrist Watch, circa 1960s

$1,950

Zodiac Sea Wolf Stainless Steel Automatic Diver Wrist Watch, circa 1960s

By Zodiac

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Zodiac STYLE / REFERENCE: Diver METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter 35mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Black Original / Modified Dauphine Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Fitted with an Original Bracelet WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. The Zodiac Wrist Watch is an iconic vintage Diver...

Category

1960s Swiss Modernist Vintage Cartier Watches

Altair New Old Stock Gold Filled Automatic Wristwatch from 1960's

$775

Altair New Old Stock Gold Filled Automatic Wristwatch from 1960's

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Altair Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Modernist Mid Century METAL / MATERIAL: Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Lengt...

Category

1960s Swiss Modernist Vintage Cartier Watches

Cartier Pasha C Chronograph Stainless Steel 36mm

$2,900Sale Price|20% Off

Dm 1.42 in

Cartier Pasha C Chronograph Stainless Steel 36mm

By Cartier

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

BRAND: Cartier MODEL: Pasha Chronograph REFRENCE: 2412 SIZE: 36mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: White BAND: Stainless Steen WRIST SIZE: 6.75 MOVEMENT: Automatic No box or papers. Acc...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner (No Date) 1989 Service Card from 2010

$9,700Sale Price|20% Off

Dm 1.58 in

Rolex Submariner (No Date) 1989 Service Card from 2010

By Rolex

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner REFRENCE: 14060 SIZE: 40mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: Black BEZEL: Black BAND: Oyster Steel WRIST SIZE: 8 MOVEMENT: Automatic Good condition, re-poli...

Category

1990s Swiss Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Tank Américaine Chronograph White Gold

$15,800Sale Price|20% Off

Dm 1.78 in

Cartier Tank Américaine Chronograph White Gold

By Cartier

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

Can be accommodated with an appraisal upon request, after return period. BRAND: Cartier MODEL: Tank Americaine Chronograph REFRENCE: 2312 SIZE: 16 x 45mm CASE: 18k White Gold DIAL: ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

White Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Silver Dial

$6,320Sale Price|20% Off

Dm 1.34 in

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Silver Dial

By Rolex

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Oyster Perpetual REFRENCE: 15200 SIZE: 34mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: Grey BAND: Jubilee Stainless Steel MOVEMENT: Automatic WRTIST SIZE: Apx. 7.75 Very Good c...

Category

1990s Swiss Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

0.75 Carat Ruby 0.52 Carat Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Watch - Vintage 1964

$15,234

H 6.89 in W 0.62 in Dm 1.04 in

0.75 Carat Ruby 0.52 Carat Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Watch - Vintage 1964

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A stunning, fine and impressive, rare 0.75 carat ruby and 0.52 carat diamond, 18k yellow gold and 18k white gold set watch; part of our unusual vintage jewellery...

Category

1960s European Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Gubelin Stainless Steel Valjoux 72 Chronograph Doctors Pulsation Watch, 1940s

$7,500

W 1.46 in L 1.82 in

Gubelin Stainless Steel Valjoux 72 Chronograph Doctors Pulsation Watch, 1940s

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Gubelin Switzerland STYLE / REFERENCE: Round Screw Back Case Style Chronograph METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel DIMENSIONS: Length 44mm X Diameter 38mm CIRCA: 1940's MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels / Cal. Valjoux 72...

Category

1940s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust Steel 18K Yellow Gold Custom Diamonds Black Dial Watch 69173

$8,499

H 1.03 in W 0.44 in Dm 1.03 in

Rolex Datejust Steel 18K Yellow Gold Custom Diamonds Black Dial Watch 69173

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Pre-owned. Good condition. Custom Dial and bezel. It comes with a Chronostore box and a 1 year Seller warranty. Natural Diamonds

Category

20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Steel

Harry Winston Premier Ladies Diamonds & 18k White Gold & Satin Strap

$20,740Sale Price|20% Off

Harry Winston Premier Ladies Diamonds & 18k White Gold & Satin Strap

By Harry Winston

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

BRAND: Harry Winston MODEL: Premier REFRENCE: PRNQHM36WW001 SIZE: 36mm CASE: 18k White Gold with Diamonds DIAL: Mother of Pearl with Diamonds MOVEMENT: Quartz SKU: WL1936

Category

2010s Swiss Modern Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

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

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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How can you tell if something is Cartier?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
To tell if something is Cartier, look for a maker's marking. Every Cartier piece, from jewelry to watches to sunglasses, bears the maker's marking in an inconspicuous area. These markings have changed over the years, so you can often use their style, placement and wording to date and identify your piece. Once you locate the mark, refer to trusted online resources to find out more about what that specific marking indicates. Find a selection of Cartier jewelry and accessories on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Cartier lighter?
1 Answer
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.
Does Cartier make earrings?
1 Answer
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.
How do I wear Cartier earrings?
1 Answer
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.
What does the Cartier bracelet symbolize?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
What a Cartier bracelet symbolizes varies from piece to piece. With its screw motif, the Love bracelet represents the enduring nature of true love, while the three types of gold featured in the Trinity bracelet stand for love, fidelity and friendship. Translating to "just a nail" in English, the Juste un Clou bracelet is sometimes associated with simplicity and modernity. Find a large collection of Cartier bracelets on 1stDibs.
What are Cartier sunglasses called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Sometimes, Cartier sunglasses are called buffs. This name comes from the fact that Cartier was the first major eyewear designer to use rare buffalo horn as a material for crafting eyeglass and sunglass frames. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Cartier sunglasses.
Why is the Cartier Tank so popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
The Cartier Tank is so popular for several reasons. Many people like its unique shape, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I. Others appreciate its long history since it was released in 1918. Over the years, some models have featured details that further appeal to collectors. For example, the Tank Divan is notable for its striking rectangular case that is situated horizontally. The Roman numerals on its watch face are elongated, stretching to fit its unusual proportions. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Cartier Tank watches.
What is Pasha de Cartier?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Pasha de Cartier is a watch introduced by the French luxury jewelry house of Cartier in 1985. Today, the watch features an automatic movement and is available with various leather and bracelet bands. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Pasha de Cartier watches.
Who designed the Cartier Ecrou?
1 Answer
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.
What is the most famous Cartier watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
What Cartier watch is the most famous is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some well-known watches produced by the French luxury brand include the Tank Solo, the Ballon Bleu De Cartier, the Tank Anglaise, the Crash and the Clé De Cartier. Find a selection of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
What is so special about Cartier glasses?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
There are a couple of reasons why Cartier glasses are so special. First, the French luxury brand produces each pair with careful attention to detail and precise crafting techniques that make the eyewear stylish and durable. Cartier also uses fine-quality materials like buffalo horn, titanium, gold, leather, onyx and bubinga wood. Additionally, many Detroit rappers like Royce da 5'9", Tee Grizzley and Big Sean have sported Cartier sunglasses over the years, making the brand's eyewear synonymous with hip-hop culture. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier glasses.

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