These days, luxury watches are not only about telling the time. Instead, they serve like a functional piece of jewellery that does more than only look pretty. They aid individuals to manifest their success, achievement or unique personality. Perhaps the fascinating thing you can see today is a mechanical watch; its craftsmanship, complex engineering fit inside tiny cases.
These timepieces constitute some of the man’s biggest achievements in a small device to fit on the wrist. It’s not surprising that the best iterations are exceedingly sought-after among collectors. Well, luxury watches are synonymous with expensive. The most exclusive and extravagant timepieces in the world are multi-million-pound creations.
In fact, while the watch market is booming right now, the rarest iterations are breaking world records at auctions. However, the most expensive watches have a class of their own. They possess unique aesthetics to capture the eyes of avid collectors, billionaires and millionaires, Hollywood A-listers and more. Now:
When talking about the most expensive watches in the world, the names that strike to mind first include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier & more. The watches made by the leading watch brands appeal to anyone with their superb styling, classic engineering and exclusivity. Moreover, many of these timepieces are limited editions or one-offs.
So are you wondering what the world’s most expensive watches are? Do you know which the most expensive Rolex watch is?
Keep reading to look at the top most expensive watches ever produced and know why they command astronomical prices.
The Paul New Newman Rolex Daytona made a record-breaking sale in 2017, fetching about £13.01 million. This is the most expensive Rolex watch ever sold and the costliest timepiece ever sold globally.
So what’s so special about Paul Newman’s Rolex? How did it become the most expensive watch of all time?
The Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is not specifically a rare model nor embellished with very precious gems. However, it’s the unique story and association that appealed to collectors.
The story dates back to 1968 when Newman’s wife Joanne Woodward gifted a Rolex Daytona to him. While Newman began racing cars recently, her wife engraved the words’ Drive Carefully Me’ on the watch’s back. Later, this Daytona became Paul Newman’s favourite timepiece, wearing it during photo shoots, outdoors and many other places.
A gold case and a black dial – this was the rarest configuration available in the Rolex’s catalogue at the time. Thus, the Rolex Bao Dai is among the unique and most instantly recognisable watches among watch enthusiasts.
Rolex initially sold this timepiece to the Nguyen dynasty’s last emperor in 1954 in Vietnam. And it was the costliest watch available in the brand’s catalogue at that time. What makes this Rolex so unique & collectable?
However, the watch was at auction already before. The Nguyen family sold it first in 2002 for about £171,880. Interestingly, it was the highest price paid ever for a Rolex watch at that time.
Rolex produced the Daytona Unicorn Reference 6265 between 1970 and 1988. The watch sports a 37mm steel Oyster case and the manual winding Calibre 727 movement. Interestingly, collectors had no severe interest in this watch. However, Reference 6265 was not any ordinary Rolex.
So, why Rolex 6265 is unique? The watch is crafted of white gold, hence, the nickname ‘Unicorn’. The white gold case frames a black sigma dial. Rolex delivered this watch to a German retailer in 1971. However, it is believed to be the only version of Reference 6265 crafted of white gold. Thus, the watch is genuinely unique and highly coveted.
Related: 8 Vintage Rolex Models that Can Fetch a Premium in Pre-owned Market
Patek Philippe Reference 1518 debuted in 1941 as the first perpetual calendar moon-phase chronograph watch. This in itself made the watch a highly coveted collector’s piece. But the timepiece did not have substantial collectors as Patek Philippe introduced the model at the peak of WWII.
The watchmaker introduced the Reference 1518 in stainless steel, yellow gold and Rose gold cases. Although all three watches are coveted, the steel edition is more desirable among collectors. Phillips Bacs & Russo sold the watch in Geneva, where the bidding started at about £2.20 million. However, the final price settled at £7.10 million, making a record for a wristwatch at that time.
This Patek Philippe Reference 5016A-010 ranks among the list of the most complicated watches ever made. The watch packs the Calibre RT 027 PSQR hand-wound movement featuring a one-minute tourbillon, perpetual calendar and minute repeater. Moreover, it is made of 506 hand-finished parts.
Interestingly, the Phillips Auction house billed the timepiece as one of the greatest classics of the Patek Philippe Grand Complications. The estimated price was CHF 700,000 – 900,000. However, the watch finally hammered at a staggering £5.42 million.
At the bi-annual Only Watch charity auction, the limelight was on the host of Patek Philippe watches. Following the record-breaking sale of Reference 5016A-010, the watchmaker again came up with another one-of-its-kind model.
The fact is that Patek Philippe used titanium very rare. And Reference 5208 is the only titanium edition ever produced. It sold for an astronomical price of £4.61 million – the second-highest sum that bi-annual event ever achieved. However, the auctioned price went to Monaco Association that works for the degenerative muscular disorder, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Christie’s auction house billed this 18ct Gold Chronograph from Patek Philippe as a historically significant wristwatch. Patek Philippe introduced Reference 1527 in 1943, packing the Calibre 13 into it. And the movement controlled the date, moon phase and perpetual calendar functionality of the timepiece.
Why is this Patek Philippe Chronograph watch special? This is because the watch is the archetype of some of the most iconic watches within Patek’s catalogue. Take, for example the Reference 5270.
However, like most timepieces debuted during WWII, Patek Philippe produced Reference 1527 in low numbers. The watchmaker supposedly made only two of the Reference 1527, and this specific version is considered one of the two models. Another one is a non-chronograph watch.
Thus, when it went to auction in 2010 at Christie’s, the competition was furious. The auctioneers estimated the watch to fetch within £1.15 – £1.93 million. However, the timepiece finally sold for about £4.67 million, becoming the most expensive watch sold at auction at that time.
The Patek Philippe Calibre 89 enjoyed the recognition of the world’s most complicated watch for over a quarter of a century. However, it lost this tag in 2015 after the release of Vacheron Constantin 57260. But the Calibre 89 is yet the most complicated timepiece in Patek Philippe’s catalogue. And thus, the watch is indeed unique.
Well, Patek Philippe released the Calibre 89 watch to commemorate the brand’s 150th anniversary. They produced only four of these models in platinum, white gold, yellow gold and pink gold, respectively. However, the model that went up for auction in 2009 is the yellow-gold edition.
A famous Japanese Ferrari and Patek Philippe collector named Yoshiho Matsuda bought the timepiece for nearly £3,739,172. He has this exclusive timepiece in his collection to date. The watch came up for auction several times, but it did not reach the price set at about £8.16 million.
Related: 5 Factors that Make Patek Philippe Watches So Expensive
This Royal Oak Offshore Grande Complication is the descendant of the ever-first sports watches, the iconic Royal Oak. It is among the most expensive watches within AP’s catalogue and also in the world. However, the Audemars Piguet Offshore Grande Complication is a waterproof masterpiece with exclusive features. It includes –
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grande Complication features a 44mm titanium case and a ceramic bezel. However, its skeleton display allows you to see the elegant and detailed finishing that took 860 hours to complete.
Many watch collectors and fans have fallen in love with this iconic, luxurious timepiece that contributes significantly to the brand’s ultra-desirability. However, AP produced only three examples of this timepiece worldwide, making it a rare piece to collect.
Audemars Piguet named this watch collection after one of the company’s founders. The Jules Audemars Grande Complication is available in different metals like pink gold and titanium. However, the watch measures 42mm in diameter and features a transparent case back to give you a glimpse of the mesmerising movement.
Moreover, a hand-stitched alligator leather strap boosts the elegance of this self-winding timepiece. The strap is further fitted with titanium or 950platinum or 18ct gold folding clasp. The watches of this collection cost nearly between £471,655 and £571,764.
The third model in the list of the most expensive Audemars Piguet watches is the Millenary CarbonTourbillon Chronograph. What contributes to the astronomical price tag of the watch are the materials. The list includes blackened steel and aluminium for the bridges, forged carbon for the watch case. Moreover, AP used black ceramic for the crown, chronograph push-pieces and the bezel.
The brand’s expert craftsmen made the case by processing and moulding separate carbon wire pieces. The result is unique texture and ultra-lightweight. Moreover, the watch features a column-wheel mechanism, tourbillon and twin barrels. AP completed the model’s elegant look with a hand-stitched alligator leather strap.
It takes over two weeks to assemble the watch and is also waterproof. Pairing expert craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials, the Millenary CarbonTourbillon Chronograph cost nearly £301,712.
Also Read: 5 of the Best Audemars Piguet Watches for Avid Watch Collectors
The Cartier Ballon Blue Tourbillon Diamond watch sports a 46mm case size with 13mm thickness and an upgraded movement mechanism. However, what boosts the watch’s glamour is the Baguette diamond-set bracelet. The slate grey dial with sun satin-finished grid and transparent case back adds to the beauty of the watch.
Moreover, the Roman numeral hour markers and sword-shaped hands on the dial ensure increased legibility and beauty. You can see the tourbillon at the 6 o’clock side. The manual wound movement gives 50 hours of power reserve. How much does it cost? It is about £0.79 million.
Cartier introduced the Rotonde Tourbillon Chronograph as a limited edition timepiece. It comes with a 45mm case diameter with a thickness of 15.7mm. Other exclusive features of this limited edition piece include a black alligator strap and a transparent case.
However, the strap builds up to a double adjustable deployant buckle that allows comfortable wearing. The signature Roman numeral markers and blue-coloured sword hands elevate the readability of the elegant grey dial. How much is the watch worth? It is about £176,749.
Cartier produced the Extra Large Tortue High Complication platinum watch only in 15 pieces, making it a rare model to come across. The watch features a platinum case of 10.7mm thickness and a transparent case back. However, what further magnifies the beauty and elegance of the watch is the high-quality black alligator strap.
This Cartier Tortue High Complication Extra Large watch flaunts a silver guilloche dial with Roman numeral markers and apple-shaped blue hands. Other features include a power reserve indicator and calendar functionality. This manual winding, water-resistant watch cost nearly £367,008.
Related: How Cartier Became A Serious Watchmaker?
The elite watchmaker Jaeger Lecoultre designed the ultra-luxurious Joaillerie 101 Manchette watch to gift Queen Elizabeth on her reign’s 60th year. The watch is made of white gold and flaunts a series of diamond-set links. Moreover, the exclusive profile houses a tiny movement – Calibre 101. The timepiece is worth nearly £19.07 million.
The Vacheron Constantin Reference 57260 is among the most complicated timepiece in the world. It consists of 57 different complications, 242 jewels and 2826 individual elements. Interestingly, ten of these complications were new inventions in the horological industry at their manufacturing time.
The most exceptional features of Reference 57260 include a double retrograde split-seconds chronograph, a night mode and the Judaic calendar. However, the timepiece sports a simplistic case that leaves the centre stage to the unrivalled mechanics.
Vacheron Constantin is known to take nearly eight years to design and produce this watch. So you won’t be surprised to know that the timepiece fetched about £5.87 million.
The BR-X1 Tourbillon Sapphire showcases the brand’s signature cockpit design. And it is the most expensive watch by far Bell & Ross has ever made, having a price tag of about £363,253. The timepiece features an all-sapphire case with transparent sides that clearly illustrate the mono-pusher chronograph tourbillon movement.
Bell & Ross offered this ultramodern watch, one of the oldest movement constructions in watchmaking. The columns raise the bridges slightly from the main plate. However, the plates have added cutaways that boost the view from the sides. This means you can admire all the functional components from several angles.
So these are some of the most expensive watches for men ever produced or sold at auction. Not everyone can afford them right now, but there is no harm in seeing and dreaming.
However, those who have a luxury watch and want an accurate valuation can contact our expert team today. The Luxury Hut buys all kinds of luxury timepieces from leading watch brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier and more, vintage or modern, for competitive prices. Part-exchange against watches is also available. Fill in our online form or call on 0207 242 9160 for an instant price quote.
Since its establishment in 1847, Cartier has been one of the top luxury jewellery brands. It’s hard to resist the appeal of the brand’s innovative and dynamic jewellery creations. The Maison continues to receive exceeding love and reverence from fashionistas, celebrities and the affluent of society. Cartier’s demand has been consistent for over 150 years.
Cartier’s portfolio consists of many iconic jewellery collections that have today become household names. It includes the legendary Love collection, Trinity and more. The designs are supremely coveted and represent unrivalled craftsmanship that enables them to stand the test of time.
Each piece of Cartier jewellery exudes elegance, style and luxury. However, Cartier rings have always been a top choice among jewellery lovers and collectors in the UK and globally. A Cartier ring is particularly a highly valuable jewellery piece, and precious jewellery experts at The Luxury Hut know how much historical and monetary value Cartier rings can hold.
However, Cartier rings have been a mainstay of the brand over the decades. Keep reading to explore the magnificent collection of Cartier rings.
Louis Francoise Cartier founded the company in 1847 in Paris, France. Since then, the brand has been synonymous with luxury and royalty. King Edward VII named Cartier as the ‘king of jewellers’. He commissioned the jeweller to make 27 tiaras in 1904. However, this royal order made Cartier the jeweller for royal families across the world.
The company continued to flourish more and more by releasing innovative designs maintaining the highest jewellery making standards. However, Cartier’s catalogue became more diversified, consisting of bracelets, brooches and rings.
People usually associate Cartier with their luxurious wristwatches and magnificent necklaces. However, the brand has an exquisite collection of silver and gold rings that are hard to overlook. You will be fascinated to know that Louis-Francois Cartier was expertise in diamond rings. One of the oldest collections of Cartier is the Trinity Ring that traces back to 1924.
However, Cartier’s signature jewellery collections include the Panther ring from the 1930s and the Cartier Love ring from the 1960s. Whether a Cartier wedding band or Cartier men’s rings, every jewellery piece showcases attention to detail and luxury.
Cartier has produced many incredible and instantly recognisable designs over the years, from simple Cartier wedding band to the iconic Cartier Love ring. Take a look at some of the most popular ones below –
There is hardly any jewellery lover who has not heard of the Cartier Love bracelet. However, its younger sibling, the beautiful Love ring, showcases a similar instantly recognisable design. Cartier offers the Love ring in different metal options, including yellow gold and white gold. The Love ring is a classic choice for men, used as a wedding band.
However, the Cartier Love ring features the signature screw motifs on the outer edge. Unlike the bracelet, the Love ring does not come with a corresponding miniature screwdriver. But its chastity-style design represents the same symbolism – ever-lasting love and loyalty.
Related: Cartier: The Origin of A Renowned Jewellery Brand
The panther is symbolic of Cartier. In 1914, Cartier designed an exclusive art piece of a panther and woman. Jeanne Toussaint became a part of the Cartier brand in 1918 and soon acquired the ‘La Panthere’ nickname. Based on her namesake, the Cartier Panthere collection debuted, and its first ring appeared in 1935. It featured appealing dark bright gold enamel offering a highly contrasting finish.
The Panthere is one of the mainstay collections of Cartier, and the Panthere rings are yet available, exhibiting the classic designs of the past.
The Trinity is ideally the oldest Cartier collection that dates back to 1924. The 100-year old design makes this collection specifically unique. It features three interlocking rings, and each of them signifies something special –
So the Trinity ring looks luxurious and meaningful, integrating a gold ring, a silver ring and a gold ring in one design. However, Cartier offers the Trinity rings also embellished in diamonds.
The term ‘Juste UN Clou’ means ‘just a nail’ and such an ingenious design you can possibly only expect from Cartier. The Maison introduced this collection in the early 2010s. However, the nail themed ring design originated from the design of nail bracelet that Aldo Cipullo designed after the milestone achievement of the Love bangle.
Today, this exclusive Cartier collection includes necklaces, cufflinks and earrings and also the classic Cartier band. You will find the Cartier nail ring in different variations, including simple yellow, white and pink gold designs and diamond-set versions.
Nonetheless, the Juste UN Clou Cartier ring will give you a pop-art feel and a contemporary look. These luxurious Cartier nail rings are exceedingly coveted for the unique look and several variations out there.
This punk-inspired Cartier collection is the latest one and includes rings, necklaces, bracelets & more. The jeweller introduced the Clash de Cartier line in 2019. But the jewellery designs of this series are reminiscent of the brand’s creations in the 1930s. They also exhibit the boldness for which people recognise Cartier.
Well, the Clash de Cartier might not enjoy the iconic status as the brand’s legendary ring collections. However, it does not signify that Clash de Cartier rings are not valuable. Interestingly, its jewellery designs possess feminine and masculine elements, similar to the Cartier Love ring.
And thus, the chances are high that the Clash de Cartier rings, especially the new diamond ones, can be coveted in coming years.
This Panther ring flaunts nearly 1.15ct diamonds in total. Moreover, Cartier highlighted the eyes and nose with two marquises cut emerald and one black onyx cabochon, respectively. So the diamond panther ring crafted in 18ct yellow gold is an ideal showstopper for the wealthy who do not hesitate to drop a lot of money.
Cartier offered this 18ct pink gold ring a distinctive wrap shape that ensures to make a subtle statement. The ring boasts tiny diamonds with a total weight of 0.59ct, elevating the overall glory and elegance.
This solitaire diamond ring represents Cartier’s connection to royalty, delivering royal vibes. Like you already know, King Edward VII of England named Cartier as the official jewellers of the royals. Moreover, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia also wore Cartier.
Cartier is also beloved by today’s royals like the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. You will find the Duchess wearing a beautiful heart-shaped Cartier piece.
This Cartier Ruby ring sold for a staggering £19.6 million sum in 2019 at an auction. The ring is one-of-a-kind and rare. People crave these types of rubies as their value only increases with time.
The classic Trinity ring is among the most valuable jewellery pieces in the latest Cartier catalogue. It is available in 18ct white, yellow and rose gold adorned with 432 diamonds, selling for about £29,100. The ring displays the exceptional design and quality that make Cartier popular.
Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide on How to Sell Cartier Jewellery
With several unique contributions to Haute Horlogerie over the years, Cartier has cemented its position as an icon in the watchmaking industry. Most of the brand’s creations are spectacles, and the new 2021 collection is no exception.
Cartier introduced three new timepieces that intend to propel the aesthetic limits of skeletonisation. Interestingly, the brand designed these new watches based on Maison’s design traditions and the floating mystery dials.
So the brand-new Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Precious ‘Icons Set’ consists of –
All these three new Cartier watches exhibit the complex tourbillon escapement via visual frontiers. Continue reading to explore more.
However, if you are looking to sell Cartier watches, call us on 0207 242 9160 today for a competitive quote.
Cartier’s relation with mystery timepieces began during the first years of the 20th century. The brand released the popular ‘mystery clocks’ where the hands appeared like floating the clock’s transparent body with no visible link to the movement.
In fact, the hands were affixed to two crystal discs equipped with zigzag metal edges. However, the movement activated these discs and that, in turn, the two hands.
Nonetheless, the three new Cartier models provide different elucidation of the watchmaking classic. Cartier produced each model in limited numbers of only five pieces.
Let’s kick off the unique trio of Rotonde De Cartier timepieces with the Astromysterieux.
The new Astromysterieux boasts a 43.5mm platinum case, an aquamarine cabochon-encrusted winding crown and a matching alligator strap. Moreover, the dial flaunts a tiny chemin-de-fer minute track and an outer ring with Roman numerals.
The watch Astromysterieux looks nearly phenomenal in its execution. Cartier introduced the mystery dial concept in 1912, taking inspiration from a vision given by Jean-Eugene Robert-Houdin – the famous French horologists and illusionist.
Thanks to the sapphire disk linking the case to the movement, Cartier incorporates an orbital tourbillon assembly and the timeless mystery dial concept for the new Rotonde De Cartier Astromysterieux. Moreover, the Maison extended the tourbillon carriage to bear the watch’s entire gear train, including the balance wheel and mainspring barrel.
However, the dial’s inner part is left to the hand-wound Calibre 9462 MC movement with only 5.9mm thickness. It offers a 55hours power reserve and beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour. Cartier suspended the Calibre 9462 MC movement on a tourbillon carriage secured to a transparent rotatable sapphire disc.
Cartier furnished the Skeleton Mysterious Double Tourbillon watch with a minimal platinum case of 45mm x 11.9mm, a narrow bezel and straight short lugs. However, the case sports Cartier’s signature cabochon beaded crown encrusted with green jade. On the other hand, the skeleton dial has a flying tourbillon with no upper bridges.
It makes one full rotation in 60 seconds and looks like floating freely in space, thanks to the sapphire disk based on the mystery dial style. Moreover, this illusion turns out more alluring when the tourbillon makes a second rotation.
The Skeleton Mysterious Double Tourbillon watch houses the hand-wound Calibre 9565 MC movement. It offers 52hours of power reserve and beats at 21,600bph. What provides a cohesive look is a jade green alligator strap that matches the cabochon.
The Astrotourbillon is the most prominent trilogy member, featuring a slightly bigger 47mm platinum case. However, the watch sports an aventurine cabochon beaded crown, a unique tourbillon and a dark blue alligator strap.
Well, the tourbillon positioning makes the Astrotourbillon different from its other two mates in the set. Here, Cartier placed the tourbillon on the movement’s top instead of incorporating it as the traditional one. Eventually, you will find the tourbillon beneath the watch’s hands.
Moreover, the brand’s watch Astrotourbillon comes with three visible bridges. Two bridges are formed by the oversized Roman numerals at 12-hour and 6 o’clock side. On the other hand, you can find the third bridge at the 3 o’clock position.
The hand-wound tourbillon Calibre 9641 MC movement powers the new Rotonde de Cartier Astrotourbillon. The movement offers a power reserve of 48hours and beats at 21,600bph.
So Cartier has presented all three new watches in the Rotonde De Cartier precious Icons Set in a precious, beautifully decorated wooden box with blue, grey and green gradations, commemorating the wood marquetry art.
Want to sell Cartier watches in London? The Luxury Hut can buy your luxury timepiece for the best possible price in the pre-owned market. Fill up our online form or call on 0207 242 9160 for a free competitive quote.
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Cartier collaborates with Unique Personalities for the Launch of Its New Pasha Watch
The Cartier Ronde Solo de Cartier belongs to the classic watch category that offers its users a unique savour of both innovation and tradition. Released in 2009, Cartier is known to design this classic collection taking inspiration from the preceding Ronde Louis Cartier watches.
A circular dial with blued sword-shaped hands and bigger Roman numerals, and a rail-track minute circle characterise the Ronde Solo de Cartier watches. However, they are available with interchangeable colourful straps and bracelet that increase the uniqueness and flexibility of their design.
Cartier offers the brands watch in different sizes, including quartz 29mm model, an automatic 36mm version and a 42mm model like the Reference W6701011 that we will be highlighting here. Continue reading to explore more.
However, if you want to sell your Cartier watch for the best price possible, get in touch with the trusted watch buyers at The Luxury Hut today.
1. The Case
Cartier offers the watch model in 18ct pink gold or stainless steel. With a stainless steel case of 42mm diameter and 8.53mm thickness, the watch sits pretty flat in the wrist.
2. The Dial
The Ronde Solo de Cartier flaunts an elegant silvered opaline dial. What boost the watch’s legibility and contrast is the oversized and prominent black Arabic numerals.
Moreover, the exciting fact is that the dial will look lighter or darker and the blued hands will turn light blue or almost black, based on the lighting conditions and glare amount on the sapphire crystal.
3. The Vintage Flare
Cartier fitted its signature blue synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel on the beaded crown of the Ronde Solo de Cartier. Interestingly, the wolf-fang shaped lugs offer a slight vintage flare to the timepiece.
4. The Bracelet
This watch is available in two bracelet choices – strap or a stainless steel bracelet. And you will also perhaps agree that the watch looks more contemporary and classic fitted with the steel bracelet.
Another significant fact to note is that the brand designed the bracelet offering many removable links. This means that you can adjust the watch easily and get a comfortable fit.
5. The Movement
The Cartier Ronde Solo de Cartier watch houses an in-house automatic Calibre 1847 MC movement. It offers a power reserve up to 42hours and 28,800vph frequency. However, the watch features a mirror-finished solid case-back and is water-resistant up to 30m.
Are you looking to sell Cartier watches in London? We, at The Luxury Hut, can buy your luxury watch for the best possible price in the market.
Fill up our simple online form to get a free valuation shortly. You can also call us on 0207 242 9160 for an instant appraisal over the phone or to book an appointment at our Hatton Garden office in London.
Cartier has produced many exquisite luxury watches for women over the years, treasured and coveted for their unique design and grandeur. Lets compare the two iconic watches produced by the brand The Cartier Tank Francaise vs Panthere.
However, among the many famous Cartier watches for women, the Tank Francaise and the Panthere are two of the most famous models.
It should not come as a surprise as both the watches from Cartier flaunt classic design, clean lines and timeless grace.
Thus, let’s today explore the similarities as well as dissimilarities between the two iconic watches – the Cartier Tank Francaise and the Cartier Panthere.
Introduced in 1917, the Cartier Tank is one of the oldest collections of the brand. The watch was designed taking inspiration from a military tank silhouette.
However, while this rectangular Cartier model was an instant hit, the brand offered several versions of it over the past century.
Some of the iterations are namely the staunch icon Tank Americaine, the Tank Anglaise, and Tank Cintree.
It has been over two decades, but the Tank Francaise is yet a mainstay timepiece for ladies in the brand’s catalogue.
Now:
Cartier launched the Panthere watch model in 1983. The watch sported a sleek square case, the signature Cartier dial and a pliant link bracelet.
While it oozed out all splendour that designated the ‘80s, the Cartier Panthere became the most coveted timepiece of the decade.
However, the brand stopped the Panthere watch production in the mid of 2000s. But Cartier revamped the model and unveiled it a few years back for new collectors.
The Cartier Tank Francaise and the Panthere share many similar features. For instance:
However, both models come with two unique styles. While the Tank Francaise is sportier, the Panthere is dressier.
Cartier fitted the Tank Francaise with a sleek three-link configuration. On the contrary, the Panthere watch comes with a more ornate five-link bracelet.
Moreover, the Cartier Panthere features a curved square bezel, exposed screws, curvier lugs and shoulders encircling the winding crown.
But Cartier offered the Tank Francaise with thick borders on the left side of the case. And the right side of the dial bulges out to function as lugs that hold the bracelet in its position.
Moreover, the Cartier Tank Francaise comes with no crown guards.
Cartier offers the Tank Francaise as well as Panthere watch in different metal options – 18ct gold, steel and gold bi-metal and stainless steel.
Interestingly, Cartier offered the new Panthere collection with a few unique style choices like a wide bangle cuff or a double wrap bracelet.
Nonetheless, both the Cartier Tank Francaise and the Panthere watch exude classic aesthetics that make them incredibly appealing and desirable in the market.
The Luxury Hut specialises in buying all kinds of Cartier models for competitive prices.
Sell Cartier watches online or via appointment to us in London or from anywhere in the UK. Regardless, our process is quick, secure and hassle-free.
Simply, fill up our simple online form, providing all details of your watch and get a free competitive quote immediately.
Or call us on 0207 242 9160 to book an appointment at our office in Hatton Garden, London.
Cartier is one of the most popular watchmakers of all time, continuing its legacy of producing sought-after watches.
All Cartier watches represent simplicity, sophistication, and luxurious finishes. Indeed, they make milestone assets and cherished heirloom.
Let’s today take a look at five famous or popular Cartier watch collections that are cherished and sought-after among collectors across the world.
Cartier introduced the Santos collection in 1904, and the brand’s history successfully started with it.
The Cartier Santos is available in many variations. However, the integral design elements that each Santos watch feature include –
However, its larger references flaunt a date window.
The manufacturer released the contemporary Santos in 1978. These watches featured exposed screws and metal bracelet.
In the 2000s, Cartier introduced the Santos 100 models. They sported a more modern design with minimised screw-heads.
However, this year the Cartier Santos collection made a comeback, flaunting the entire 1980s look.
Launched in the middle of 2000s, the Cartier Ballon Bleu is the iconic collection that bears an incredible unisex appeal.
Although it does not come with an intriguing history like the Tank, the instantly recognisable design of the Ballon Bleu makes it highly accessible.
Moreover, the Cartier Ballon Bleu watches typically feature a polished, guilloche carved dial.
The dial, in turn, flaunts Roman numerals along with precisely designed proportions.
Louis Cartier took inspiration from the military tanks used during World War I and designed the timeless Cartier Tank with the Art Deco design. This one is also a popular Cartier watch.
Ever since it was introduced, the Cartier Tank became the ultimate dress timepiece of celebrities, leaders, and loyalties.
However, Cartier today offers the Tank Francaise in stainless steel, gold, bi-tone gold and steel. The watches also come with leather strap options.
The Cartier Tank Anglaise is an upgraded edition of the classic Tank collection.
The significant difference lies in their thickness, crown design, and curvilinear case.
Cartier launched the Tank Anglaise collection in 2012 that has today become sought-after for its playful and modern design.
Initially known for its jewellery, Cartier gradually became a serious watchmaker.
And it is believed that the brand earned its legitimacy in the sports watch field after the introduction of the Calibre collection.
Sell your Cartier watch to the trusted watch buyers at The Luxury Hut for the best possible price in the pre-owned market.
The Luxury Hut specialises in buying all Cartier models, be it of men or women. We determine an accurate value of a Cartier watch considering all essential aspects like its model, condition, age and current market price.
At The Luxury Hut, you can sell Cartier watches online or via appointment at our Hatton Garden office in London.
Simply, fill up our online form, providing all the details about your watch. We will contact you shortly with a free competitive quote via email or phone.
If you are satisfied with it, send your watch to us for a final offer. Or call us on 020 7242 9160 to book an appointment at our premises.
Accept our final offer and get paid immediately.
Explore More: Popular Cartier Watch Collections for Women
Founded in 1847, Cartier is a globally recognised luxury jewellery brand. This brand makes outstanding and iconic pieces that retain their value.
However, the jewellery and watches not only retain their value but also some Cartier items appreciate.
So, how Cartier earned an association with class and splendour?
To understand it, let’s delve into the history and the founders of this classic and innovative jewellery and watch-maker. We will also be exploring some of the Cartier’s signature collections.
Have a look!
The expert jeweller Louis Francois Cartier established the company in 1847. Gradually, it gained a reputation for producing extravagance.
However, the son of Louis Cartier, Alfred acquired the company in 1947. Later, he expanded it into futuristic forms of watch manufacturing.
But the brand that we know today is built by his three sons – Jacques, Pierre, and Louis. The fact is that:
While they wished to make Cartier a global name, the three gentlemen opened locations quickly in New York, St. Petersburg, and also London.
On the other hand, Pierre opened the Maisons in London and New York.
Thus, the three brothers extended together from manufacturing timepieces to fine jewellery. The jewellery items include bracelets, rings, necklaces, and gemstones.
Moreover, Cartier is referred to as “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers”. The brand secured this royal warrant after it designed 27 tiaras for King Edward’s coronation.
Cartier made many innovative watch designs that included pocket watches and clocks embellished with pearl, onyx and other gems.
Interestingly, a new trend of wearing short sleeves apparel among women appeared in the 20th century.
While women showed off their bare wrists across Paris, Louis Cartier could foresee the future of the wristwatch.
Another classic collection introduced in 1912 is the Cartier Tortue. The watch is named “Tortue” because of its tortoise-inspired shape.
However, with its unique and unconventional design at the time, the model achieved immense popularity across gender and age.
After World War I, wristwatches became fashionable as well as practical. While the lines of a military tank inspired Louis Cartier, the brand offered the Cartier Tank with strap.
It was in the 1970s that the Love bracelet made its way to the market. Since then, the Cartier Love bracelet has become the most successful and iconic Cartier collections.
The bracelet is screwed together using a tiny screwdriver that symbolises everlasting love.
However, the Love collection today also include rings, necklaces, and earrings.
In 1924, Louis Cartier built the Trinity collection that flaunted white, pink, and yellow gold interlacing bands.
Indeed, the classic yet contemporary design of the Trinity collection gained sustained popularity and success since its debut.
If you are willing to sell your Cartier watch or a Cartier Love bracelet, follow these simple steps below to get the best possible deal from the trusted buyers at The Luxury Hut.
If you think about ‘Haute Horlogerie’, what is the first brand that will come to your mind? Of course, it is not ideally Cartier! Nonetheless, the fact is that Cartier is today an earnest watch manufacturer with a compelling past and excellent proficiency in jewellery or gem setting. Moreover, it is no secret that Cartier is ideally the world’s second or third best selling Swiss brand after Rolex.
Although the brand is typically more recognised for its fine jewellery, Cartier’s watches have also made a big impression all over the world. While their signature timepieces are now highly desirable and collectable, you can choose to sell your Cartier watch with full confidence. Thus, let’s today find out how the prestigious brand Cartier gradually became a serious watchmaker over the years.
In 1874, Louis-Francois Cartier founded the company ‘Cartier’ in Paris, France, during the disruptive time of the French revolution. The brand, in its early years, established its reputation by meeting the extravagant desires of the elites in society. While Louis-Francois Cartier’s son and later, his grandsons joined the business after a few decades, it brought a new perspective to the company and quickly acquired the fame.
In 1904, the brand made the watch ‘Santos’ for his Brazillian aviator friend and client, Alberto Santos-Dumont. However, the timepiece did not go on sale until 1911. Later, Cartier partnered with Edmond Jaeger in 1907 who supplied the movements for the brand’s exclusive wristwatches. While the company opened its boutiques in the same year in New York City, London and St. Petersburg, its global presence grew. Eventually, Cartier began to emerge as one of the world’s most successful and popular watchmakers.
Cartier startled the luxury watch industry in 2008 with the launch of its ever first Geneva Seal watch – the Cartier Ballon Bleu Flying Tourbillon. Interestingly, the famous Cartier had no tradition of producing in-house mechanical movements. Moreover, the brand also had no roots of watchmaking in Geneva, and this is indeed a primary requirement to achieve the reputably prestigious ‘Poincon de Geneve’. Thus, you now may be wondering:
The fact is that Richemont SA, the parent company of Cartier, took possession of the production facilities of Roger Dubuis Manufacture in Geneva that specialised in producing movements with Geneva Seal. While the company quickly took over a factory in the Dubuis facility, it installed ten expert watchmakers over there.
The Flying Tourbillon calibre 9452 MC is indeed based on the design of Roger Dubuis. But, the question that yet lingered was whether the expertise behind the Ballon Bleu design was Cartier or Dubuis. However, it was really Cartier that emerged as a legitimate mechanical movement maker with earnest ambitions in high horology.
Cartier soon cemented its position in the high-mechanical men’s watch market. The brand introduced seventeen new mechanical timepieces for men and nine all-new movements that included another Geneva Seal movement. However, at least six of its movement was designed, developed and produced entirely in the Cartier’s big watchmaking factory in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Among them, the first movement Cartier made in-house is the automatic calibre 1904 MC. It is the base movement for upcoming mechanical watches of Cartier, including the ones with complications. Ideally, the most surprising production of Cartier was the Cartier ID One – probably the first watch of the world that never requires adjusting.
The watch sports some innovative mechanisms and components like a carbon-crystal balance wheel, and Zerodur hairsprings. The Cartier ID Two is another concept timepiece made by Cartier that is indeed the first high-efficiency watch of the world. The watch uses less energy but stores as well as distributes energy more efficiently. Incorporating new elements, new construction of the mechanical parts and distinctive treatment for watch parts, Cartier made the timepiece with a power reserve of 32days.
However, all these Cartier’s innovations have left the watch aficionados, and collectors impressed, surprised but also, confused at the same time. While people perceived Cartier more as a creator of jewellery and handbags for women, they wondered how the brand could produce high-mechanical wonders.
Cartier chiefs confessed that today the brand is the world’s leading producer of jewellery timepieces, especially for women. For example, women’s models in the United States account for about two-thirds of Cartier watch sales. Regardless, they acknowledged that the brand converted into manufacturing mechanical movement to keep with Cartier’s recognition as a historical manufacturer of its luxury assets and men’s watches with icons such as the Cartier Santos and Cartier Tank.
The International CEO of Cartier, Bernard Fornas, asserted that Cartier has been making new mechanical timepieces for men since 2005. The brand developed in-house mechanical watches not only to place itself as a luxury watchmaker next to Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, Piaget and others but also to produce movements that manifest Cartier’s image as an epitome of design and creativity.
Cartier was well-aware of the fact that men, interested in so-called ‘better watches’ were more knowledgeable about watches and also, more interested in movements’ quality. Thus, in 1998, the brand launched its ‘Collection Privee, Cartier Paris’ series, keeping those male consumers in mind. A collection of limited edition watches was equipped in Cartier’s classic cases such as the Santos and the Tank and powered by top-notch mechanical calibres produced by Cartier.
In 2007, Cartier introduced its first extravagant Flying Tourbillon Calibre 9452MC movement that received the first-ever Geneva Seal. Moreover, the movement was equipped into a much bigger 47mm Ballon Bleu case. However, in meanwhile, Cartier launched a much more wearable 40mm Rotonde and glamorous Ballon Bleu Flying Tourbillon watches.
In 2011, Cartier launched a thin automatic calibre 1904MC movement with power reserve up to 48hours. The first watch powered with the calibre 1904MC was the ‘Calibre de Cartier’. However, the brand soon after started to employ this calibre as the base for many Chronographs and Perpetual Calendar calibres.
The Cartier Diver is indeed the first diver watch made by the brand, also powered by the calibre 1904MC. However, the most exciting fact is that it is the world’s slimmest Diver watch. While the case size of the watch is 42mm, it has a height of only 11mm. And, for a diver timepiece, the height of 11mm is indeed flat, especially when you compare it with the Rolex Sea-Dweller of 17,68mm height or the popular Rolex Submariner with a height of 12,5mm.
However, the bezel of the watch is unidirectional and self-lubricating, steel varnished with ADLC – a material harder than steel. While the sapphire crystal is 1.2mm thicker than the standard ‘Calibre de Cartier’ watch, it can combat the water-resistant up to 300m.
The exclusive Rotonde Annual calendar with in-house automatic calibre 9908MC and Grande date is an illustration of a complicated movement, based on the Calibre 1904. However, wearers can adjust the watch through the crown and require only one correct each year.
The Santos Dumont Skeleton was the second watch to feature the new mechanical skeleton 9612MC calibre. This good looking watch comes with a pink, white gold or ADLC coated titanium case and has a wearable 38.7 X 47.4mm dimensions.
The amazing Rotonde Grande Complication was introduced in 2010. However, Cartier made certain refinements to release the Rotonde Grande Complication’s 2015 version, retaining the same dial colour and case. But, it was entirely a different watch fitted with Flying Tourbillon, Minute Repeater and Perpetual Calendar.
The new automatic skeletonised calibre 9406MC movement and double platinum micro-motor powered the watch. More significantly, this Rotonde Grande Complication achieved the Geneva Seal.
From the standard calibre 1904MC to the high-end 9406MC movement, Cartier created a stunning collection of nearly 40 different calibres, since 2007. This genius watch manufacturer is indeed worthy of your attention if you are interested in luxury watchmaking.
However, for those who are looking to sell their Cartier watch or ‘How to sell a luxury watch online’ of any other luxury brand to raise instant cash, get in touch with the trustworthy watch buyers at The Luxury Hut in London to ensure that you are getting the best possible deal.
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