Among the watch brands leading the global market recently, Cartier stands out for its unrivaled position. Since 2021, its watch division sales have surpassed Omega and it continues to maintain its ranking this year, Solidifying its status as a watch brand. Unlike other brands in the top ranks of Swiss watch sales, Cartier began as a jewelry brand. For this reason, Cartier's dedication to watches is sometimes misunderstood.

The Birth of Cartier

Cartier was founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier and expanded into watches around 1888. For nearly 150 years, The brand has contributed greatly to the advancement of watchmaking technology. Under the leadership of the founder's grandsons, Louis Cartier and his brothers Pierre and Jacques, The brand expanded to New York and London, Growing into a global name.

Pierre, Louis, Alfred, Jacques Cartier ⓒ Cartier Family Archives

Today, Cartier is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group and is headquartered in Paris, France.

Cartier Watch Collections

Cartier has a long history in watchmaking and design, Pioneering many trends and innovations in the industry. Here are some of the most iconic collections, Each with its own story and innovative technology.

Santos-Dumont ⓒ Sigongsa, Chronos Korea

The First Popularized Wristwatch, Santos

There is still debate over what was the first wristwatch. Some say the Breguet Reine de Naples from 1810 or the Patek Philippe ladies' wristwatch from 1868, Both of which were designed as watches integrated into women's bracelets. However, The reason Cartier's Santos is emphasized as the first wristwatch is its "popularization."

Early production Santos ⓒ Cartier

In 1904, Louis Cartier's friend, The famous Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, Requested a watch that could be read during flight. At a time when pocket watches dominated, The Santos featured a dial that was easy to read, Even in flight. The Santos series began selling in 1911 and played a major role in making wristwatches a must-have fashion accessory for men. Its design continues to this day.

Santos Dumont LM W2SA0011

43.5mm x 31.4mm, Silver

Santos Dumont SM W2SA0012

38mm x 27.5mm, Silver

Santos LM WSSA0018

47.5mm x 39.8mm, Silver

Santos MM WSSA0029

41.9mm x 35.1mm, Silver

Cartier Tank Louis ⓒ Cartier

The Iconic Square Watch, Tank

The Tank series, Considered Cartier's most iconic design, Was born in 1917. The development of watches and war are closely linked, And the Tank series is one such example.

ⓒ Monochome-watches

The Tank's unique square frame and robust, Symmetrical design were inspired by the Renault tanks used in World War I. Since then, Various models such as Tank Solo, Tank Anglaise, Tank Francaise, Tank Americaine, And Tank Must have been added to the Tank lineup.

Tank Louis Cartier SM WGTA0010

29.5mm x 22mm, Silver

Tank Must LM WSTA0041

33.7mm x 25.5mm, Silver

Tank Must SM WSTA0042

29.5mm x 22mm, Silver

Tank Must LM WSTA0052

33.7mm x 25.5mm, Silver

Tank Must SM WSTA0051

29.5mm x 22mm, Silver

Ballon Bleu ⓒ Swisswatches

The Blue Orb, Ballon Bleu

If the Tank is the icon of square watches, The Ballon Bleu is the most symbolic design among round watches. Worn by celebrities and royalty such as Kate Middleton, This watch is loved for its round pebble case, Comfortable fit, And stylish design. It features Roman numerals and a sapphire cabochon winding mechanism. Both the Ballon Bleu and Tank are notable for being loved by both men and women, Not limited to a specific gender.

Ballon Bleu WSBB0049

42mm, Silver

Ballon Bleu WSBB0044

33mm, Silver

Ballon Bleu W69010Z4

28mm, Silver

Cartier Panthère ⓒ Cartier

The Eternal Muse, Panthère de Cartier

The Panthère de Cartier, Which also serves as jewelry, Is one of the brand's most unique designs. Inspired by Cartier's eternal muse, The panther, It is adorned with gold, Diamonds, And exquisite gemstones, Offering elegance and beauty as another signature masterpiece.

Panthere de Cartier MM WSPN0007

37mm x 27mm, Silver

Panthere de Cartier SM WSPN0006

30mm x 23mm, Silver

Panthere de Cartier Mini WSPN0019

25mm x 19mm, Silver, Mini

Why Cartier is Recognized as a Luxury Watch Brand

To be recognized as a true luxury watch, Several conditions must be met. These include in-house movements, High-quality materials, Distinctive design, Reasonable pricing, And rarity. Cartier fulfills almost all these criteria, And it has long surpassed the status of a jewelry company that simply makes good watches.