Cartier, a renowned watchmaker and jeweller, was founded in Paris in the mid-19th century.
The founders of Cartier were trained as jewellers and quickly turned their attention to luxury and prestigious watchmaking for both men and women.
A new trend: jewellery watches
At the start of the 20th century, Cartier shook up the world of fine watchmaking and changed trends forever. Watches made their debut in the world of jewellery and could now be worn on the wrist in elegant, refined designs. As early as 1904, the company introduced the ‘Santos’ model, one of the first wristwatches, which is still in the catalogue today.
The art of turning time into a jewel
Throughout the 20th century, other watches were created that are now regarded as masterpieces of high-end watchmaking.
Examples include the Cartier ‘Tonneau’, launched in 1908; the legendary Cartier ‘Tank’, introduced in 1917; and the Cartier ‘Tortue’, first appearing in 1919. Cartier’s Art Deco designs have earned the brand worldwide renown, and are as celebrated for their jewellery as they are for their watches.
Inspiration and the ‘Cartier bestiary’
The success of Cartier’s wristwatches is also due to its animal-themed collections, a favourite motif of the watchmaker. Cartier’s bestiary has contributed to its renown since the 1940s. Time takes on an animal-like quality: uncontrollable yet contained. The precious nature of the materials used and the reliability of the movements ensure the quality of Cartier’s watchmaking creations and contribute just as much to their success and renown.
Cartier watches are highly sought after today by collectors of vintage timepieces and connoisseurs of elegant watches.
