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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.

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Creator: Cartier
Cartier EWC Gold and Enamel 1920s Pocket Watch
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1920s Cartier pocket Watch, 46 MM Diameter and 4.5 MM thick 18K Yellow Gold 2 piece case. Blue and White Guilloche Enamel. Mechanical, Manua...
Category

1920s French Art Deco Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Cartier Panthere Snowflake Obsidian Dial Diamonds 18k White Gold Watch (Y-94)
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Obsidian Marble Dial Panthere de Cartier. Contact us for more questions Brand: Cartier Model: Panthere Movement: Automatic Case Size: 31 mm Dial: Snowflake Obsidian; N...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch Custom Diamond Case W62016V3
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Comes only with the BLACK strap and additional WHITE strap (Steel bracelet is not included!) W62016V3
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster XL Chrono Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Silver Dial W62020X6
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster XL Chronograph Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Silver Dial W62020X6. Silver dial with luminous hands and Roman numeral hour markers. Minute markers on the outer rim. ...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster Chronograph White Dial Custom Diamond Steel Watch W62019X6
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Diamond Cartier Roadster W62019X6 watch. 47.6mm x 42.8mm diamond stainless steel case, on diamond stainless steel bracelet.
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Tank Solo Python Pattern Stainless Steel Ladies Watch W5200020
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Stainless steel case 30.0 x 23.0 mm. Circular grained crown set with the blue spinel cabochon. This watch in overall excellent pre-owned condition. It has been professionally polishe...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu 36mm Silver Diamond Dial WE902075 Box Set
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The Cartier Ballon Bleu 36mm (reference WE902075) is a refined timepiece that exemplifies Cartier's commitment to blending classic design with luxurious craftsmanship. Crafted from s...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Pasha 18k white gold Automatic Wristwatch Ref W3013756
By Cartier
Located in Surfside, FL
Cartier Pasha 38mm in 18k white gold with rotating bezel. Auto w/movement under glass, sweep seconds and date. 38 mm case size. Circa 2010s. Ref W3013756. Fine Pre-owned Cartier Watc...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Calibre Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch w/ Subseconds Ref W7100016
By Cartier
Located in Surfside, FL
Cartier Calibre in stainless steel with a roman numeral black dial. Auto w/ subseconds and date. 42 mm case size. Ref W7100016. Fine Pre-owned Cartier Watch. Certified preowned Sport Cartier Calibre W7100016 watch is made out of Stainless steel on a Stainless Steel bracelet with a Stainless Steel Deployant buckle. This Cartier watch has a 42 x 42 mm case with a Round caseback and Black Roman Numeral dial. It is Certified Pre-Owned and comes backed by our 12-month warranty. Each watch is inspected by our certified in-house master-trained watchmakers before shipment including final servicing, cleaning, and polishing. If you have inquiries about this Cartier Calibre watch...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel, Steel

Cartier Rotonde De Cartier Large Date W1556220
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
A 42mm Rotonde De Cartier wristwatch crafted in rose gold. Featuring a silver guilloche dial with roman numerals, a large date display, a second-time zone function and day/night indi...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Cartier Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Leather Strap
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph watch. Black dial, 47.6mm x 42.8mm diamond, stainless steel case, on black alligator strap with diamond buckle.
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster XL Chrono Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Black Dial W62020X6
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster XL Chronograph Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Black Dial W62020X6
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

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

2023 Cartier WSBB0060 Ref 4345 Ballon Bleu Black Dial Stainless Steel Box Paper
By Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: WSBB0060 / Ref 4345 Year: 2023 Model: Ballon Bleu Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: Black ...
Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Tank Divan MOP Dial Diamond Bezel Watch 2599
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
-Mint condition -Case size: 25x31mm -Stainless steel -Movement: Quartz -Roman numeral hour markers -Pink leather strap -Aftermarket Diamond Bezel: 2...
Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch Custom Diamond Case W62016V3
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch W62016V3 - Quartz. Stainless steel tonneau style case (30mm x 35mm). Pink guilloche dial with black Roman numerals; date at 3 o'clock. S...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Pasha #2324 Stainless Steel Custom Diamond Watch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Pasha #2324 automatic stainless steel watch. 35mm stainless steel case, custom 2 row diamond bezel, champagne grid dial, date, on stainless steel bracelet.
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Santos Round Ref. 1910 Two Tone Yellow Gold/Stainless Steel Watch
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
Brand: Cartier Model Name: Santos Ref No.: 1910 Movement: Automatic Case Size: 33 mm Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold / Stainless Steel Dial Color: White Creme Bracelet Material...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Cartier Ronde Folle Libre White Gold Diamond Set WJ304350
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
From Cartier, this 37 mm Ronde Folle Libre in white gold features a silver dial concealed by sapphire crystal. The dial is adorned with a curved white gold grid which is set with rou...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Ballon Bleu ref 3765 Stainless Steel 42mm Automatic Mens' Watch, c2020.
By Cartier
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
This instantly-recognisable Cartier Ballon Bleu ref 3765 Gents’ Watch is an epitome of timeless sophistication Circa 2020, the timepiece is in excellent condition & in great worki...
Category

2010s Swiss Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier Panthere Stainless Steel / Yellow Gold Obsidian Dial Ref. 166921
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
DESCRIPTION ITEM SPECIFICATION Brand: Cartier Model: Panthere De Cartier Movement: Quartz Case Size: 22mm Dial: Marble Dial Case Material: Stainless Steel/Yellow Gold Bracele...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Cartier Vendome Driver BI-PLAN W1514457
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
A yellow gold Vendome Bi-Plan wristwatch by Cartier. Featuring a silver guilloche dial with roman numerals, a secret Cartier signature at "X", blued steel sword-shaped hands and a ye...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Cartier Roadster Sm NWMD46 Ladies Peach Dial Stainless Steel with Diamond Bezel
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster Small Ladies Peach Dial Stainless Steel Watch with Diamond Bezel This watch has been professionally polished, serviced and is in excellent overall condition. There a...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Ronde Louis Diamond Bezel Watch
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
A stunning 36mm Ronde Louis wristwatch from Cartier. Featuring a silver dial with roman numerals, apple-shaped hands in blued steel and Cartier's hidden si...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Quartz Chronograph Yellow Gold Watch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A chic Cartier quartz chronograph watch in 18 karat yellow gold, with a leather strap. Made in Switzerland, circa 1980.
Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Cartier Roadster Ladies Stainless Steel W62016V3 Diamond Case & Middle Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch Diamond Case and Middle Bracelet W62016V3 Pink-tone dial with luminous hands and black Roman numeral hour markers. Minute markers around an inner ring...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier La Dona Ladies White Gold Silver Guilloche Dial Diamond Set B&P WE600351
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
An 18k White Gold La Dona Ladies Wristwatch, silver guilloche dial with roman numerals and a secret signature at 'X', blued steel sword shaped hands, a fixed 18k white gold bezel set...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Santos 18K White Gold Replacement Butterfly Folding Clasp #20663
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Cartier Santos 18K White Gold Replacement Butterfly Folding Clasp This authentic Cartier replacement clasp for the Cartier Santos watch is set in solid 18K white gold. Stamped Cart...
Category

20th Century Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Stainless Steel Midsize Diamond Panther W4PN0008 4016
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Stainless Steel Midsize Diamond Panther W4PN0008 4016 - Quartz. Stainless Steel with factory diamond bezel ( 27 x 37 mm ). Silver dial with black roman numerals. Stainless...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier. A Rare Gold Slim Keyless Lever Pocket Watch C1930
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Cartier. A Rare Slim 18ct yellow Gold Keyless Lever Pocket Watch C1930s. Dial: The superb silver engine turned dial features Arabic numerals with outer minute track. The original b...
Category

1930s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold

Cartier Santos Galbee Silver Dial Small Steel Ladies Watch W20054D6/2423
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your wrist game with this stunning Cartier Santos Galbee Women's Wristwatch. Perfect for any occasion, this wristwatch is a must-have for those who appreciate timeless style ...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel

Cartier Pasha Pink Dial Diamond Automatic White Gold Watch
By Cartier
Located in Holland, PA
18k White Gold Diamond Automatic Pasha Pink Dial Wristwatch by Cartier. With 8 Round brilliant cut diamonds VVS1 clarity, E color on the dial. Details: Bra...
Category

Early 2000s French Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Cartier Pasha 35mm W31043M7
By Cartier
Located in Surfside, FL
Cartier Pasha in Stainless Steel with a black dial. Auto w/ sweep seconds and date. 35 mm case size. Ref W31043M7. Circa 1990s. Fine Pre-owned Cartier Watch. Certified preowned Cla...
Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Must de Cartier Blue Lapis Dial – Mechanical Wind (1980s)
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
💙 Cartier Must de Cartier Blue Lapis Dial – Mechanical Wind (1980s) An exquisite and highly sought-after vintage piece, this Must de Cartier features the rare and stunning blue lapi...
Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold Plate, Base Metal

Cartier Must de Cartier Vermeil – Serviced by Cartier in 2022
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
💎 Cartier Must de Cartier Vermeil – Serviced by Cartier in 2022 A finer example you may not find. This vintage Must de Cartier has undergone a full Cartier service in April 2022 in...
Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold Plate, Base Metal

Cartier Roadster Large Automatic Wrist Watch
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 2010 Cartier Roadster Reference 2510 Wrist Watch, 44 x 39 M.M. Stainless Steel 2 piece Water Resistant case. Automatic, Self winding movement, Sapphire Glass Crystal 2 tone Sil...
Category

2010s French Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier - Cartier Tank Louis Mini 67117 - Women - 1980-1989
By Cartier
Located in Braintree, GB
An elegant Cartier Tank Louis Mini from 1986, featuring a rectangular case in 18kt yellow gold, iconic Roman numeral dial, and blue steel sword hands. The manual-winding movement is ...
Category

1980s European Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Genuine Cartier Panthere Pre-Owned Small 3 Row Gold Steel Watch
By Cartier
Located in Carmel By The Sea, CA
Offered is a genuine and iconic Cartier Panthère small-sized wristwatch, featuring a classic three-row design in 18K yellow gold and stainless steel. The case back is engraved with s...
Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel, Gold, Steel

Cartier Stainless Steel Ballon Bleu With Diamond Bezel
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Movement: Automatic Function: hours, minutes, seconds Case: 36mm stainless steel round case, diamond bezel Dial: white guilloche roman Band: stainless steel Serial #: 4372438XXXCX Re...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Santos Ronde Large 34mm Stainless Steel – Automatic W20026K1
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A refined 1990s Cartier Santos Ronde Large, featuring a 34mm stainless steel case and matching bracelet for a sleek and timeless design. The cream dial is adorned with bold black Rom...
Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Retro Era Rare Cartier Automatic Dress Watch – Stainless Steel
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A rare vintage Cartier automatic dress watch from the Retro era, featuring a sleek 33mm stainless steel case and a silver dial with raised silver arrow-shaped markers. The automatic ...
Category

20th Century Retro Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Blue Desk Clock Gold Tone Alarm Ref 3038
By Cartier
Located in Montreal, QC
Cartier Ballon Blue Desk Clock, Gold tone with Alarm ref 3038, case number 667147GD , quartz operating, Roman Number ,case and Dial signed, Swiss made, circa 2010, in working order w...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Cartier Panthere Ref. 106000M in 18k Yellow Gold With Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
Brand: Cartier Model: Panthere de Cartier Model Number: 106000M Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold Case Size: 28mm Dial: Gold Pave Diamonds Bezel: Gold Diamond Bezel Bracelet: 18k Yellow...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Cartier Panther 18k Yellow Gold Men's Quartz Watch with Date & Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Panther 18k Yellow Gold Men's Quartz Watch with Date & Diamonds - Quartz. 18k yellow gold case with factory diamond bezel (27mm x 38mm). Ivory colored dial with black Roman ...
Category

20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier Ballon Bleu 3489 WE902074 Midsize 33mm Diamond Dial Steel Box Paper
By Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 3489 / WE902074 Year: 2021 Model: Cartier Ballon Bleu Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: Opaline Silver Diamond Di...
Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Cartier Roadster XL W62020x6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Leather Strap
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph watch. Black dial, 47.6mm x 42.8mm diamond, stainless steel case, on black alligator strap with diamond buckle. Will come included with stain...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Ronde Louis Cartier WR007004 Unisex Watch in 18kt White Gold
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Ronde Louis Cartier WR007004 Unisex Watch in 18kt White Gold SKU: 111893 PRIMARY DETAILS Brand: Cartier Model: Ronde Louis Carti...
Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

White Gold

Cartier Ballon Bleu Midsize Stainless Steel Watch W69011Z4 3005
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Ballon Bleu Midsize Stainless Steel Watch W69011Z4 3005 - Quartz. Stainless Steel ( 36 mm ). Silver guilloche dial with black Roman numerals. Stainless steel Cartier bracelet...
Category

20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier Roadster WE500260 Women's Watch in 18kt White Gold
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Roadster WE500260 Women's Watch in 18kt White Gold SKU: 117422 PRIMARY DETAILS Brand: Cartier Model: Roadster Country of Origin: Switzerland Movement Type: Quartz: Battery ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

White Gold

Cartier Art Deco Table Clock
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Late Art Deco table clock of geometrical design in red enamel on yellow gold, with small turquoise elements. Electric movement. Cartier, circa 1930.
Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Turquoise, 14k Gold

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.
Questions About Cartier Watches
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 VendĂ´me 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 VendĂ´me. Shop a variety of Cartier VendĂ´me watches on 1stDibs.
  • 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 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 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 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 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The price of Cartier bracelets varies based on age, condition, and rarity. The least expensive versions of the Cartier Love bracelet, for example, can still cost around $4,000. On 1stDibs, there is a variety of Cartier bracelets for sale.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, Cartier sells rings for men. The luxury jewelry house produces numerous band rings, including the 1895 wedding band, the C DE, the Love and the D'Amour wedding band. In addition, the brand offers a ring version of its Trinity bracelet. The piece combines yellow, white and rose gold bands to symbolize love, friendship and fidelity. Find a selection of Cartier rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Cartier uses platinum in the production of their jewelry and other items. In fact, Alfred Cartier and his three sons are credited with mastering this metal and creating a process that made it possible for jewelers to use this metal efficiently. Find vintage and contemporary Cartier jewelry from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Cartier Panthere is one of the brand's most distinctive and iconic shapes, replicating a panther head adorned with gems and jewels. The first panther pattern to appear in the Cartier line was on a watch for women, created in 1914. Shop a collection of Cartier jewelry and watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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