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Cartier, the French luxury brand, has created a lasting legacy over the ages, from creating the first wrist timepiece to making the most famous diamonds in the world. Famously celebrated as the ‘Jeweller of Kings’, the brand has continuously pushed boundaries and enchanted the world with its sophisticated and unique creations. So, it’s not hard to think that each popular design has an interesting story.
Whether it is associated with Cartier’s heritage, watchmaking or style, the brand is a mega-design house creating things that eventually become the next object of desire. Looking over Cartier’s most iconic creations, here are some of the most exciting origin stories enthusiasts will admire.
Read through the series of stunning stories.
The story starts with a specific problem. In 1904, Alberto Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian aviator complained to his friend Louis Cartier about the inconvenience of a pocket watch to check the time while flying. Soon enough, Cartier designed the first wristwatch with a stunning square bezel. Santos-Dumont became the first to wear a Cartier wristwatch in November 1906 when he took a flight.
Cartier officially launched the Santos in 1911 with style resembling the original 1904 creation. During the initial years, the Santos had a 25mm x 35mm square case in platinum or yellow gold. The dial design was highly legible with an Art Deco style, and the exposed bezel screws looked adventurous. The early Santos watches usually had black or brown leather straps with a gold folding buckle.
The current-day Cartier Santos is available in various metals, including steel, pink gold or white gold, with multiple bracelet options, such as the Smartlink gold bracelet and interchangeable straps. You can even select a Santos added with sparkling brilliant-cut diamonds.
Introduced by Cartier in 2007, the Ballon Bleu collection aesthetically combines the brand’s superior watchmaking with fine jewellery sensibility. It is also one of Cartier’s most iconic models. If you see the catalogue of Cartier’s watches, you can find most of them made of rectangular, square, tonneau and cushion-shaped cases. So, when the Ballon Bleu debuted in the mid-2000s, it quickly gained attention for its round shape and extraordinary versatility. It was a matter of great excitement for the brand.
The shape of the famous Ballon Bleu resembles a hot air balloon. Cartier envisioned a large circle held by slender threads to curate this creation. The manufacturers wanted to give more volume to the simple round case and made it doubly convex so that the shape would strike immediately. Every aspect of this watch is perfectly balanced, much like a reminiscence of a pebble.
It is round on the top and the bottom and sits elegantly on the wrist. The dial has dignified Roman numerals, and the enclosed blue cabochon crown makes it instantly recognisable. You can always turn it over to see the full profile, as it is curved the same way on the back. The watch is fundamentally unisex and is available in various styles and diameters. You can find it in white, pink or yellow gold, steel and with or without diamonds fitted to multiple bracelet options.
The Panthere de Cartier is undoubtedly one of Cartier’s most indomitable icons. It symbolised free spirit and was a powerful role model of the 20th century. The story begins with a woman named Jeanne Toussaint, a style icon in Paris. When this famous lady became acquainted with Louis Cartier, a new inspiration for Cartier jewellery was born. Toussaint wore a full-length panther coat and had her apartment beautifully adorned with leopard skin. The lady’s fierce determination and elegance earned her the nickname ‘La Panthere’ from her then-lover Louis Cartier.
What started as a nickname soon prowled into Cartier’s one of the most recognised collections- The Cartier Panthere wristwatch. It came sculpted in black enamel and yellow gold, a combination that gave more dimensions to the animal. In 1914, the panther appeared on a Cartier wrist piece with stones adorning it for the first time. But it was in 1983 when the Maison finally unveiled its Panthere de Cartier catalogue of quartz jewellery timepieces. The motif has since become an icon.
It all lies in the symmetry and balance between the black and white and the alternating onyx and diamonds. Their shapes, number, spots, and dome determine the spirit of each Panthere de Cartier creation. And the third colour adds pigment to the appeal. The exclusive animal motif appears on various Cartier accessories, watches and jewellery.
This year, the Cartier Tank turns 105, and there’s hardly any Cartier collection as enduring, elegant, and famous as the Cartier Tank. Beloved by both men and women, the story of the famous Tank goes back to 1917 when Louis Cartier was inspired to create this one-of-a-kind timepiece. He made this iconic dress timepiece by drawing inspiration from the newspaper images of the Renault FT-17 tanks used on the Western Front during World War 1. The Renault tank was a mechanical hero of the Great War.
As goes with the name, the Tank design pays homage to the French tanks and looks square and rectangular with a seamlessly integrated leather strap. Clean Roman numerals grace the dial, and the crown features a single blue sapphire. In 1918 Cartier gifted one of its first Tank models to US General John Pershing. The first Cartier Tank model made its debut to the public in 1919, and by the early 1920s, its popularity was sky-high.
Today, the Cartier Tank watches are available in various metals, with or without diamonds, fitted to different bracelet options. The watch has a huge celebrity following who adore its sophisticated appearance. Some of the most popular Tank models created are Tank Anglaise, Tank Americaine, Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Francaise, Tank MC, and Tank Solo.
A real-life heartbreak inspired Cartier’s most heartfelt collection – The ‘LOVE’ collection. And the love bracelet is its most loved jewellery. It finely captured the spirit of an era when sexual liberation was coming to the fore. But the start to this wasn’t all lovey-dovey. The story of Cartier’s most desirable Love bracelet started in 1959 when a young man named Aldo Cipullo from Rome immigrated to New York. He had a rough fate in love.
Cipullo was heartbroken when one night; his relationship came to an end. He went to his studio at 3 am and came up with a bracelet design that changed the fate of Cartier forever. The bracelet’s design symbolised the permanence of love. Sounds ironic, doesn’t it? The man fused technicality with jewellery to create a masterpiece that one couldn’t just slip off the wrist easily. It had screw heads installed on the bracelet, making it extremely difficult to take it off.
For the oval-shaped bracelet design, Cipullo drew inspiration from the chastity belt prevalent during the medieval ages as a symbol of loyalty and purity. He designed the bracelet to show a couple’s love and fidelity towards each other. It required a special miniature screwdriver to secure and remove the bracelet. After all, symbols of love must be everlasting.
At this point in history, Aldo worked for Tiffany and wore one of these unique versions on his wrist. And, despite much enthusiasm from his colleagues and friends, the brand didn’t pick up the design. A few months later, in 1969, Cipullo went to Cartier and pitched the idea to them. Cartier got him on board.
The birth and launch of the Cartier ‘Love’ bracelet was a triumph! Originally, the love bracelets came as a set for couples. One couldn’t just randomly walk in to buy a love bangle for themselves. It had to be purchased as a gift or as a couple who surrendered the screwdrivers to one another. The bangles were chic and innovative and symbolised the permanence of love. However, today anyone can wear and lock themselves into the adored Love bracelets.
Now, more than ever, the Cartier love bracelet has increased in popularity and value, making them a popular investment option where you can sell your Cartier at a high price.
By now, you must have realised that there’s no brand as dramatic as Cartier. And, thanks to the interesting stories that add so much more meaning and value to each Cartier item. Each creation by Cartier is nothing less than magical, leaving buyers enCchanted since the dawn of the 20th century.
Over the years, the French Maison has created some of the most iconic watch and jewellery designs which now have become steady investment pieces. Whether it is a Cartier Tank or Panthere, or the beloved Love bracelet, you can rest assured to draw a good return when you sell Cartier items. Hence, proved it never was or will be only timekeeping for Cartier.
The demand for luxury watches is at an all-time high! For some, the craze for luxury watch brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe started during the COVID-19 pandemic when the young generation couldn’t travel abroad.
According to watch specialist Vincent Wong, there has been a steady rise in demand for such luxurious timepieces since the first lockdown in 2020. Due to the global pandemic, foreign currencies have become unstable. As a result, the young ones are now investing in luxury watches with the saved money.
Wong added that the value of luxury watch brands like Rolex, AP, and Patek has significantly increased in the past few years. The watches make for a more secure expenditure than any other overseas travel. Moreover, the value of the watch brands like Rolex and others is recognised globally. This means, if ever a person intends to sell Rolex watches in the future, they can easily expect to fetch an increased resale value!
Depending on the Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet models, the resale value of the watches can go up to 50%-120%. Moreover, some buyers are willing to offer almost double the retail price for a Rolex. Hence, it is only wise to invest in luxury watch brands in such a scenario.
First and foremost, luxury watches like Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Audemars Piguet symbolise success. All three watch brands are famous for their quality, prestige, and reliability. Moreover, in recent times, luxury watches have become synonymous with class. As a result, more and more people are interested in owning one from the retail or the pre-owned market.
The value of a commodity greatly depends on its demand and supply chain. When you own a luxury watch, your ability to sell the luxury watch is greatly dependent on its market value. Few watches are more in demand than the others. This could be due to several factors.
So, depending on the watch model you own or plan to buy, the resale value will fluctuate. Rolex is very attractive and popular in the watch market. It is also the best luxury watch brand regarding resale value.
Patek and AP are great choices too! If you own a rare model or the production numbers for a specific model are low, then there are high chances that its value will steadily increase.
You must be thinking: Should I buy a Rolex, Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet Watch?
Going with the current trend, investing in any three brands will yield you a higher resale value.
All the 3 brands are expensive. To simplify it, Rolex has a lower entry point than the rest but enjoys a higher resale value in the pre-owned market. You can always sell Rolex watches at a handsome value to some reliable watch buyers in London.
Many people like to buy a luxury watch, only to sell it for the same or a slightly higher price. If you want to do that too, you must invest in a watch with a good resale value (names mentioned above). While AP & Patek are good investment watches, Rolex is the best!
In 2022, the prices of Rolex have escalated, making it even more profitable for the people planning to sell Rolex in the pre-owned market.
We all can agree that the three watch brands are equally prestigious. But for an average man, Rolex is the king! Everyone knows and loves Rolex, don’t they? On the other hand, AP and Patek could command respect.
Rolex, AP, and Patek Philippe are all horology greats. If you want a watch that sports some of the best complications and movements, AP & Patek would be your choice. Rolex emphasises creating watches that have specific purposes.
All three watch brands have a great history. Rolex, came out in 1905, Patek Philippe in 1839, and Audemars Piguet in 1875. However, when you look at the watch history, Rolex has made the most significant impact, which the other two brands cannot compete with.
AP and Patek Philippe watches target the elites of the society. On the other hand, Rolex is for the high-income, working individuals of any age. You can achieve a Rolex at some point, and it is also a worthwhile investment choice, and you can avail of them in a variety of styles.
But, AP & Patek lack this kind of variety and are exceptionally high priced.
As the passion for luxury watches increases globally, more and more people are inclined to invest in luxury watches than ever before. With supply so low at retail, it is unlikely that brands will offer any discount. Brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe are now selling on the pre-owned market for over their retail values.
Thankfully, this situation isn’t likely to end anytime soon. So, if you plan to invest now in Rolex, for instance, expect to fetch a whooping amount when you sell your Rolex watches in the pre-owned market.
This holds true for the other two brands as well.
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.
Since its introduction in 1847, Cartier has earned prestige and status for its excellent craftsmanship and incredible designs. While this French luxury brand is synonymous with luxury, Cartier is one of the most coveted brands in the market.
From the 1936 London Halo Tiara to today’s popular LOVE collection, Cartier has been the jeweller of choice for celebrities, and royal families throughout the 20th and 21st century.
Indeed, Cartier jewellery has a high resale value because of the brand’s equity. Moreover, there is typically a colossal demand for the brand’s jewellery items in the pre-owned market.
Thus, people looking to sell Cartier jewellery are likely to obtain excellent valuation and offer. Now:
Selling Cartier jewellery can seem to be a daunting and complicated task, especially to the uninitiated. Whether you want to ‘sell my Cartier Love bracelet’ or sell Cartier ring, the appraisals you receive may differ by hundreds of pounds.
Thus, it might be difficult for you to ascertain, ‘how much can I sell my Cartier ring for’ or ‘What is the value of my second hand Cartier jewellery’.
However, selling Cartier Love bracelet or any pre-owned Cartier jewellery does not need to be intimidating. With a little bit of directed research and understanding, you can make the selling process simple. And also, you can ensure that you are receiving the best possible deal for your precious asset.
Nonetheless, if you are already prepared to sell your Cartier jewellery, just click on the button below.
If you want to sell a Cartier jewellery item securely, the most significant step is to research the jewellery buyers thoroughly. With a professional and trusted jewellery buyer, you can sell your designer jewellery for the best possible price.
The Luxury Hut is one of the most trustworthy buyers of second hand branded jewellery. We provide a quick and secure way to sell Cartier rings and all other kinds of Cartier jewellery.
Whether it is a Cartier Love bracelet or a Cartier Trinity ring, we buy all kinds of Cartier jewellery for competitive prices. Our process of selling Cartier jewellery is simple and convenient.
You can sell your Cartier jewellery to us both online and via appointment. To sell a Cartier Love bracelet online, simply fill up our online form, and we will offer you an initial price quote. Then, send your asset to our Hatton Garden premises in London to get a final price.
Alternatively, you can book an appointment at our office in Hatton Garden, London to carry out the transaction in person. One of our experts will evaluate your asset and make you an offer instantly.
Known worldwide for its classic jewellery and also, exclusive watches, Cartier is timeless. However, your jewellery can, unfortunately, get damaged. And, any significant damages can cause a considerable cutback in its resale value.
Thus, it is recommended to keep your item in jewellery or original box. This may prevent the asset from becoming scuffed or scratched.
Moreover, it is essential to keep your Cartier jewellery box and paperwork. The original box and documents will help to authenticate your jewellery and thus, add to its value.
You are likely to receive a good resale value for your Cartier jewellery with original box and papers in excellent condition. Now, you may wonder:
Potential collectors may typically ask for the original box and papers when buying your Cartier jewellery. However, you can indeed be able to ‘sell your Cartier jewellery in London’ at The Luxury Hut with or without the box and papers.
Whether you want to ‘sell your Cartier Love bracelet’, or ‘sell a second hand Cartier jewellery’, we can provide you with the best price possible for your jewellery without any hassle.
Simply fill up our online form now to get an offer. Or, call us on 0207 242 9160 to arrange an appointment and visit our office in Hatton Garden, London.
As an admired luxury jewellery name, Cartier jewellery items keep hold of good resale value. However, for those who are wondering:
‘How much can I sell my Cartier ring for?’ or, “what is the value of my Cartier Love bracelet?” here is the answer.
The value of a Cartier jewellery piece is typically determined considering its model, age, materials and condition. If you want to get an accurate valuation of your Cartier jewellery, we at The Luxury Hut can help.
Fill up our simple online form and receive an offer. Or book an appointment at our office in Hatton Garden, London.
Related Link: How Cartier Became A Serious Watchmaker?
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