Cartier is a renowned luxury brand known for its exquisite jewellery and watches. The history of Cartier watches spans over a century and is marked by innovation, elegance, and a strong commitment to craftsmanship. From its humble beginnings in Paris to its status as a global icon, Cartier has established itself as one of the most prestigious watch brands in the world.
The story of Cartier watches dates back to 1847 when Louis-François Cartier took over his master’s workshop in Paris. Initially, the focus of the brand was primarily on jewellery, but it wasn’t long before watches became an integral part of the Cartier offering. In 1904, Louis Cartier, the grandson of the founder, designed the first wristwatch for his friend, the famous aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. This revolutionary creation, known as the Santos de Cartier, was one of the earliest wristwatches made for men and marked the beginning of Cartier’s dominance in the watchmaking industry.
The success of the Santos de Cartier was followed by other iconic timepieces that cemented Cartier’s reputation as a pioneer in watch design. In 1917, the Tank watch was introduced, inspired by the shape of armoured military tanks used during World War I. Tank watch became an instant classic and over the years Cartier expanded its watch collection with various iterations of the Tank, including the Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Française, and Tank Américaine.
Cartier’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation continued to drive its watchmaking endeavours. In the 1920s-30s the brand developed its line of mystery clocks, which featured hands that appeared to float on the dial without any visible connection to the movement. This optical illusion captivated the world and soon found its way into Cartier’s watches. The Mystery Clocks inspired the creation of the Mystery Watch, where the hands seemed to float magically on the dial. These timepieces showcased Cartier’s technical prowess and artistic finesse.
In the mid-20th century, Cartier collaborated with esteemed watchmaker Jaeger-LeCoultre which resulted in Jaeger-Le-Coultre produced watches sold and branded as Cartier. Cartier has a long history with Jaeger-Le-Coultre – in the early part of the century Cartier had an exclusivity agreement to use their movements for well over a decade.
In modern times Cartier continues to innovate and create extraordinary timepieces. The brand has incorporated various complications into its watches, such as chronographs, tourbillons, and perpetual calendars. Additionally, Cartier has expanded its watchmaking expertise to include fine watchmaking pieces, which combine haute horlogerie techniques with artistic creativity.
Throughout its history, Cartier watches have adorned the wrists of royalty, celebrities, and discerning individuals worldwide. The brand’s commitment to quality, precision, and timeless design has made it a symbol of luxury and sophistication. From the iconic Tank and Santos de Cartier to the high complication watches, Cartier’s timepieces have become coveted collector’s items.
Do you have a Cartier watch in need of repair? Get in touch and see how we can help. Our fully equipped, in-house workshop and highly trained watchmakers are able to repair almost any make and model of watch, modern or vintage. We offer a fully insured freepost repairs service, as well as the option to drop repairs off in-person via our showrooms in Lewes and Uckfield, Sussex. We are Business Partners of the British Horological Institute and holders of a coveted Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award – testament to the quality of our work and the service we provide.
Yours sincerely
David Clark FGA DGA MJVA PJDip. PJGemDip.
Managing Director, JVA Registered Valuer®
W.E. Clark & Son Limited