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

Cartier Ballon Bleu WSBB0049 42mm Silver Roman Dial Stainless Box Papers

$6,795

Cartier Ballon Bleu WSBB0049 42mm Silver Roman Dial Stainless Box Papers

By Cartier

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: WSBB0049 Serial: 3765254***** Year: 2020-Present Model: Ballon Blue De Cartier Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stain...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier Tank Francais Watch

$10,350

Cartier Tank Francais Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Finely crafted in 18k white gold with a double C logo face featuring small Round brilliant cut Diamonds, and a burgundy satin strap. Signed by Cartier 20mm face Model #2517

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Cartier Must Trinity Quartz Argent Round

$2,113

Cartier Must Trinity Quartz Argent Round

By Cartier

Located in Berlin, BE

Elegant Cartier Must Trinity Quartz watch with a 21mm round argent (silver) case and a distinctive tri-color dial. A classic design that embodies Cartier’s timeless style. Without bo...

Category

20th Century French Cartier Watches

Cartier Ronde Louis Diamond Bezel Watch

$15,023

Cartier Ronde Louis Diamond Bezel Watch

By Cartier

Located in Mayfair, London, London

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 Roadster Chronograph White Dial Custom Diamond Steel Watch W62019X6

$15,442 / item

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 Ballon Bleu 46mm Platinum Men's Watch W6920059

$23,450

Cartier Ballon Bleu 46mm Platinum Men's Watch W6920059

By Cartier

Located in Dallas, TX

Cartier Ballon Bleu 46mm Platinum Men's Watch W6920059 - Manual winding. Platinum Fluted Crown Set With Blue Sapphire ( 46 mm ). Blue dial with Roman numerals. Blue Cartier leather p...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier Ballon Bleu Mens Stainless Steel Diamond Watch W69012Z4

$19,890 / item

Cartier Ballon Bleu Mens Stainless Steel Diamond Watch W69012Z4

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Ballon Bleu 42mm Mens Stainless Steel Diamond Watch W69012Z4.

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Santos Moonphase Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Custom Diamonds 119902

$12,870 / item

Cartier Santos Moonphase Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Custom Diamonds 119902

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Santos Galbee Moonphase Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold 24mm Custom Diamond Quartz Watch 119902 Please note: Cartier jewelry b...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

2023 Cartier WSBB0060 Ref 4345 Ballon Bleu Black Dial Stainless Steel Box Paper

$6,695

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 2.50ct Diamond Tortue Watch

$33,080

Cartier 2.50ct Diamond Tortue Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

An extraordinary fusion of haute horlogerie and timeless elegance, this Cartier Tortue Diamond Watch is a remarkable expression of the Maison's legendary craftsmanship. Distinguished...

Category

20th Century Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier Santos Vendome 81914 Large 18k Yellow Gold Ghost Dial

$18,350

Cartier Santos Vendome 81914 Large 18k Yellow Gold Ghost Dial

By Cartier

Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY

Cartier Vendôme Ladies Watch features a 32.5 mm case made of 18K yellow gold. It has an 18K yellow gold bezel and a unique ghost dial with gold ...

Category

1980s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Cartier Pasha #2475 Stainless Steel Ladies Watch with Diamond Bezel

$7,019 / item

Cartier Pasha #2475 Stainless Steel Ladies Watch with Diamond Bezel

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Pasha automatic stainless steel watch. 35mm stainless steel case, custom 2 row diamond bezel #2475 This watch ha...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Cle De Cartier 35mm Rose Gold and Stainless Steel Automatic Watch

$19,775

Cartier Cle De Cartier 35mm Rose Gold and Stainless Steel Automatic Watch

By Cartier

Located in Chicago, IL

Exuding the timeless elegance synonymous with the maison, this pre-owned Cartier Cle De Cartier 35mm watch combines a luxurious 18k rose gold and stainless steel construction with re...

Category

2010s French Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel, Rose Gold, Steel

Cartier Pasha C Meridian GMT Stainless Steel W31029M7 2377

$3,773

Cartier Pasha C Meridian GMT Stainless Steel W31029M7 2377

By Cartier

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Pasha C Meridian GMT W31029M7 (2377) by Cartier, available now at our Showroom in London. Blending sporty character with unmistakable elegance, this dual-time wristwatch features ...

Category

Early 2000s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu 36 Silver Guilloche Roman Dial Quartz Unisex Watch W69011Z4

$5,999

Cartier Ballon Bleu 36 Silver Guilloche Roman Dial Quartz Unisex Watch W69011Z4

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Pre-owned and in good condition. Can have minor scratches during handling and Shipping. No original box and papers are included. Covered by a 2-year chronostore warranty. Brand: Cartier Type: Wristwatch Department: Unisex Model Number: W69011Z4 Country/Region of Manufacture: Switzerland Style: Dress/Formal Model: Cartier Ballon Bleu Vintage...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu Stainless Steel Two Timezone Quartz Watch 38MM W6920011

$6,545

Cartier Ballon Bleu Stainless Steel Two Timezone Quartz Watch 38MM W6920011

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

This Cartier Ballon Bleu wristwatch is a luxurious and classic timepiece for men. The watch features a round 38mm stainless steel case with a solid caseback and a silver bezel. The d...

Category

2010s Swiss Modern Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Stainless Steel Ballon Bleu 42MM 3765

$6,500

Cartier Stainless Steel Ballon Bleu 42MM 3765

By Cartier

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Cartier SS Ballon Bleu Watch 42MM Floating like a balloon and as blue as the cabochon safely nestles in its side, the ballon Blue watch adds a dask of elegance! **watch has 1 extr...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster Xl W62020x6 Black Dial Stainless Steel Fully Iced Out Watch

$23,166

Cartier Roadster Xl W62020x6 Black Dial Stainless Steel Fully Iced Out Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Roadster Xl Black Dial Stainless Steel Fully Iced Out Watch W62020x6

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster Ladies Stainless Steel Diamond Case & Side Bracelet W62016V3

$13,103 / item

Cartier Roadster Ladies Stainless Steel Diamond Case & Side Bracelet W62016V3

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch Diamond Case and Middle Bracelet Silver Dial W62016V3 Silver-tone dial with luminous hands and bl...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier RoadsterXL Chronograph Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Black Dial W62020X6

$10,296 / item

Cartier RoadsterXL Chronograph 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. Black dial with luminous hands and Roman numeral hour markers....

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier 42mm Guilloche Dial Automatic Watch WSBB0049

$6,800

Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier 42mm Guilloche Dial Automatic Watch WSBB0049

By Cartier

Located in Aventura, FL

Floating like a balloon and as blue as the cabochon safely nestled in its side, the Ballon Bleu watch by Cartier adds a dash of elegance to male and female wrists alike. Roman numera...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Cartier Watches

Cartier Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Black Strap

$14,155 / item

Cartier Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Black 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 Stainless Steel Diamond Case and Middle Bracelet W62016V3

$13,103 / item

Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Diamond Case and Middle Bracelet W62016V3

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Roadster Stainless Steel Ladies Watch Diamond Case and Middle Bracelet Silver Dial W62016V3 Silver-tone dial with luminous hands and bl...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu W69011Z4 Stainless Steel Quartz With Card

$5,330

Cartier Ballon Bleu W69011Z4 Stainless Steel Quartz With Card

By Cartier

Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY

The Cartier Ballon Bleu W69011Z4 / 3005 Men's Watch is a stunning timepiece that embodies sophistication and craftsmanship. With a 36mm stainless steel case, it is both durable and s...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel

Cartier Extremely Rare 18k 'E.W.C' Alarm Watch with Hollywood Providence

$21,050

Cartier Extremely Rare 18k 'E.W.C' Alarm Watch with Hollywood Providence

By Cartier

Located in Dallas, TX

Cartier Extremely Rare 18k (E.W.C) Alarm Watch With Hollywood Providence - Manual wind. Signed and finished by European Watch & Clock (EWC). 18K Yellow gold (35 mm ) Case has not se...

Category

20th Century Swiss Cartier Watches

Cartier Ballon Bleu 36mm White Gold

$11,730

Cartier Ballon Bleu 36mm White Gold

By Cartier

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A 36mm white gold Ballon Bleu wristwatch by Cartier. Featuring a silver dial with roman numerals, blued steel sword shaped hands, Cartier's own hidden signature at VII and a white go...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

Cartier Roadster Xl W62020x6 Silver Dial Stainless Steel Fully Iced Out Watch

$23,166

Cartier Roadster Xl W62020x6 Silver Dial Stainless Steel Fully Iced Out Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Roadster Xl W62020x6 Silver Dial Stainless Steel Custom Fully Iced Out Watch. Stainless steel case back. Case dimensions: 49 mm x 43 mm. Case ...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster XL W62020x6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Leather Strap

$14,108 / item

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 Roadster XL W62020X6 Chronograph Custom Diamond Watch on Leather Strap

$14,155 / item

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 Pasha Ladies Stainless Steel Watch with Baby Blue Diamond Dial & Bezel

$6,200 / item

Cartier Pasha Ladies Stainless Steel Watch with Baby Blue Diamond Dial & Bezel

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier Pasha #2324 automatic stainless steel watch. 35mm stainless steel case, custom 2 row diamond bezel, custom diamond dial. Watch has been fully polished, serviced and there are...

Category

2010s Swiss Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Roadster XL Chrono Stainless Steel Diamond Watch Silver Dial W62020X6

$14,155 / item

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 Vendome Rondo 18k White & Yellow Gold Paris Dial Watch

$11,260

Cartier Vendome Rondo 18k White & Yellow Gold Paris Dial Watch

By Cartier

Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY

Cartier Vendome Rondo is a luxurious timepiece that exemplifies the brand's renowned craftsmanship and elegance, featuring a classic round case made of 18k white and yellow gold. Thi...

Category

1980s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Cartier Movement with Diamond Dial, Original Strap

$1,639

Cartier Movement with Diamond Dial, Original Strap

By Cartier

Located in London, GB

An authentic Cartier Pasha Calibre 500MC automatic movement, fitted with a factory diamond-set dial, with original hands and crown, and accompanied by the original Cartier strap. A...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Cartier Pasha 1353 Chronograph Grey Dial 18K Yellow Gold Leather Strap 35mm

$10,095

Cartier Pasha 1353 Chronograph Grey Dial 18K Yellow Gold Leather Strap 35mm

By Cartier

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 1353 Model: Cartier Pasha Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: Brown Leather Strap Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Dial: Grey Dial Face: Sapphire C...

Category

Early 2000s Cartier Watches

Cartier Pasha 2475 Black Dial Automatic 35mm Watch With Box and Service Papers

$5,400

Cartier Pasha 2475 Black Dial Automatic 35mm Watch With Box and Service Papers

By Cartier

Located in Miami, FL

Cartier Pasha 2475 Black Dial Automatic 35mm Watch With Box and Service Papers. - Brand: Cartier - Condition: Pre-Owned (Excellent) - Model: Pasha - Reference No.: 2475 - Case Diam...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Cartier Ballon Bleu WSBB0049 Ref 3765 42mm Silver Dial Stainless Steel Box Paper

$6,795

Cartier Ballon Bleu WSBB0049 Ref 3765 42mm Silver Dial Stainless Steel Box Paper

By Cartier

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: WSBB0049 / 3765 Serial: 5275**** Year: 2021 - Present Model: Cartier Ballon Bleu 42mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel...

Category

2010s Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Vintage Cartier Tank Must 18K Yellow Gold Quartz Wristwatch 24xx30mm

$24,000

Vintage Cartier Tank Must 18K Yellow Gold Quartz Wristwatch 24xx30mm

By Cartier

Located in Palm Desert, CA

A timeless Cartier Tank Must wristwatch crafted in 18K yellow gold, dating to circa 1980-1990. Measuring 24x30mm, this elegant timepiece embodies the iconic proportions and refined d...

Category

1980s Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Quartz, Yellow Gold

Cartier Tank 18K Yellow Gold Quartz Wristwatch, Circa 1980-1990

$9,600

Cartier Tank 18K Yellow Gold Quartz Wristwatch, Circa 1980-1990

By Cartier

Located in Palm Desert, CA

A timeless icon of luxury, this authentic Cartier Tank wristwatch is crafted in 18K yellow gold and dates to circa 1980-1990. Celebrated for its clean architectural lines, the tank r...

Category

1980s French Vintage Cartier Watches

Materials

Quartz, Yellow Gold

Cartier Diamond Bezel 18k Gold & Steel Watch

$21,350

Cartier Diamond Bezel 18k Gold & Steel Watch

By Cartier

Located in Chicago, IL

This exquisite Cartier Santos Demoiselle timepiece, epitomizes the perfect blend of horological precision and high-jewelry refinement. Featuring a delicate square stainless steel cas...

Category

Early 2000s French Contemporary Cartier Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel, Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel

Cartier Tank Américaine Stainless Steel Quartz Women’s Watch

$3,799

Cartier Tank Américaine Stainless Steel Quartz Women’s Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

This Cartier Tank Américaine women’s watch features the collection’s signature elongated rectangular profile in stainless steel. The silver-tone dial is appointed with black Roman nu...

Category

20th Century Cartier Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Cartier Gold Plated Tank Manual Wind Watch

$1,749

Vintage Cartier Gold Plated Tank Manual Wind Watch

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

A vintage Cartier Tank manual wind watch reflects the clean, rectangular design that has made the Tank one of Cartier’s most recognizable collections. This gold plated model offers c...

Category

Mid-20th Century Cartier Watches

Materials

Spinel, 18k Gold

Vintage 1990s Cartier Santos Galbee 987901 Steel Cream Roman Dial Quartz 29mm

$7,000

Vintage 1990s Cartier Santos Galbee 987901 Steel Cream Roman Dial Quartz 29mm

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

The First Modern Wristwatch The Cartier Santos is not just another watch, it is arguably the first purpose-built wristwatch in history. Louis Cartier developed the model in 1904 for...

Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Vintage 1990s Cartier Lady Colisee 1903 Sterling Silver White Dial Quartz 24mm

$3,900

Vintage 1990s Cartier Lady Colisee 1903 Sterling Silver White Dial Quartz 24mm

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

An Unconventional Case In Sterling Silver The Cartier Colisee steps away from the brand's more common Tank and Santos forms, offering a round case with unique "T-bar" style lugs tha...

Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Vintage 1990s Cartier Santos Octagon 8090 18K YGWhite Roman Dial Auto 24mm

$29,300

Vintage 1990s Cartier Santos Octagon 8090 18K YGWhite Roman Dial Auto 24mm

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

A Geometric Twist On A Cartier Icon The Santos is the foundation of Cartier's watchmaking history, but the Octagon variant offers a compelling departure from the classic square case...

Category

1990s Cartier Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow 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.

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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 diamonds real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
Yes, Cartier diamonds are real. The French luxury jewelry maker follows stringent standards when selecting the diamonds that go into its pieces. For example, the central brilliant cut diamonds in Cartier rings that are over 0.3 carats in weight must be classified as Very Good or Excellent to be used by the brand, and Cartier rarely chooses diamonds with clarity ratings below VS2 or color ratings below H. Shop a selection of Cartier diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Are all Cartier rings gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
No, not all Cartier rings are gold. Although the luxury jewelry maker produces many white, rose and yellow gold pieces, some rings are platinum. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry in the late 1800s, identifying the strong, lustrous metal as ideal for bringing out the true qualities of diamonds. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier rings.
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.
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.
What is the famous Cartier ring?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
While the luxury jewelry maker has produced many iconic pieces, the Trinity de Cartier ring is perhaps its most famous. The Trinity debuted in 1924 and features interlocking rings in rose, yellow and white gold. Shop a collection of Cartier rings from top jewelers around the world on 1stDibs.
What are Cartier glasses called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
Cartier glasses are called by a variety of nicknames. These include 'Ye's, Sticks, Carties and Cardisa. Many people refer to Cartier sunglasses and eyeglasses fashioned out of buffalo horn as Buffs. Explore a wide variety of Cartier glasses from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
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.
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 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.

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