Cartier Silver Watches

History and Heritage

The history of Cartier began in 1904 when Louis Cartier created the Santos watch for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, establishing one of the first men's wristwatches in history. The introduction of stainless steel models came later as Cartier sought to make their exceptional designs available to a broader audience. While the Maison built its reputation on precious metal timepieces, their steel watches maintain the same design excellence and attention to detail that made Cartier "jeweller to kings, king of jewellers." Today, these silver watches continue to uphold Cartier's legacy while offering collectors and enthusiasts an entry point into the brand's rich horological heritage.

Model Collections

Cartier offers rose gold across its most iconic watch families, each representing a distinct chapter in the brand's design history. From the aviation-inspired Santos to the timeless Tank and the modern Ballon Bleu, these collections showcase how rose gold enhances Cartier's signature shapes and proportions.

Santos de Cartier

The silver Santos de Cartier collection honors aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont with its distinctive square case and exposed screws. Available in small (27mm x 34.5mm), medium (35.1mm), large (39.8mm), and extra-large (43.3mm) sizes, the stainless steel Santos features Cartier's QuickSwitch interchangeable bracelet system and SmartLink sizing adjustment. These models come equipped with either quartz movements for slimmer profiles or the 1847 MC automatic caliber for mechanical watch enthusiasts.

Tank Collection

The Tank watch, designed by Louis Cartier in 1917, remains one of the most recognizable timepiece designs in the world. Cartier Tank silver dial versions are available across multiple variants including the Tank Française, Tank Louis Cartier (25.5mm x 33.5mm), Tank Must (22mm x 29.5mm to 33mm x 40.85mm), Tank Américaine (19mm x 35mm to 32mm x 52mm), and Tank Anglaise. Each variation maintains the collection's signature rectangular case with rounded edges, Roman numey track minute markers.

Panthère de Cartier

The Panthère de Cartier debuted in the 1980s with its ultra-flexible bracelet that echoes the agile movements of the panther, Cartier's emblematic animal. Stainless steel models come in mini (25mm x 19mm), small (23mm x 30mm), medium (27mm x 37mm), and the recently introduced large (31mm x 42mm) sizes. The silver Panthere de Cartier watch is a classic that offers both style and elegance.

Ballon Bleu de Cartier

Named for its perfectly rounded case shape, the Cartier Ballon Bleu silver dial watch features a unique recessed crown protected by a metal ring and adorned with a blue cabochon. The collection offers sizes ranging from 28mm to 46mm in diameter, with the steel models typically found in 33mm, 36mm, 37mm, and 42mm options. The dial design includes Roman numerals that appear to flow around the protective crown guard, creating the collection's signature aesthetic.

Ronde de Cartier

The Ronde collection showcases traditional round watchmaking with classic Cartier design elements including Roman numerals, sword-shaped hands, and a sapphire cabochon crown. Silver Cartier Ronde models provide a refined and understated option for those who appreciate circular case shapes. These watches blend timeless elegance with everyday wearability.

Specifications

Materials

Cartier constructs their silver watches from high-grade stainless steel that delivers durability and a polished finish. The steel cases undergo meticulous polishing and brushing techniques to create contrast between different surfaces. Sapphire crystals protect the dials, while some models feature exhibition casebacks showcasing the movement. Bracelets combine polished center links with brushed outer links, and leather strap options include calfskin and alligator in various colors with steel deployant clasps or tang buckles.

Movement

Cartier silver watches feature three main movement types depending on the model. Quartz movements, including the high-efficiency caliber introduced in 2018 with approximately 8 years of battery life, power many of the slimmer models like certain Tank and Panthère versions. Automatic movements include the 1847 MC caliber, named for the year Cartier was founded, which appears in Santos and larger Tank models with approximately 42-48 hours of power reserve. Manual wind movements like the 1917 MC caliber power select models such as the small Tank Louis Cartier, measuring under 3mm in thickness.

Bezel

The bezel design varies significantly across Cartier's collections, serving as a key identifying feature. Santos models showcase signature screwed bezels that mirror the exposed screws on the bracelet, creating visual continuity. Tank watches feature integrated bezels that flow seamlessly into the case sides, emphasizing the collection's geometric purity. Panthère and Ballon Bleu models have smooth, polished bezels that complement their curved profiles, while some ladies' models incorporate diamond-set bezels for added luxury.

Sizes

Cartier offers an extensive range of sizes to accommodate different wrist sizes and style preferences. Mini and small models (19mm-25mm case width) cater to smaller wrists and those preferring delicate proportions. Medium sizes (27mm-35mm) provide versatile unisex options that work for various occasions. Large and extra-large models (39mm-46mm) appeal to those seeking bolder presence and typically house automatic movements. The brand's careful attention to proportions ensures even their larger steel watches maintain the elegant character Cartier is known for.

Water Resistance

Most Cartier stainless steel watches provide 30 meters (100 feet) of water resistance, suitable for daily wear and protection against splashes. This rating, equivalent to 3 bar, protects the watch during handwashing and light rain but is not intended for swimming or water sports. The Calibre de Cartier Diver represents an exception with 300 meters of water resistance, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and a screw-down crown, making it Cartier's primary sport diving watch.

Pre-Owned Pricing

Pre-owned Cartier stainless steel watches offer excellent value compared to retail prices, with most models trading between $3,000 and $14,000 depending on the collection, condition, and specific features. Entry-level pieces like the Tank Solo and smaller Panthère models typically start around $3,000-$4,500, representing significant savings over retail. Mid-range models including the Santos de Cartier automatic and Ballon Bleu 36mm generally fall between $4,500-$7,500. Higher-end steel models with complications or larger sizes can reach $8,000-$14,000. Cartier watches typically trade at approximately 22% below retail value, though classic designs like the Tank and Santos tend to hold their value better than most luxury watches. The pre-owned market also offers access to discontinued models like the Santos 100 and vintage pieces that are no longer in production.

Expert Opinion

"Cartier stainless steel watches represent one of the best entry points into haute horlogerie for collectors who value design heritage over pure technical specifications. While brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe may command more attention for their movements and investment potential, Cartier's steel watches offer unmatched design DNA and instant recognizability at more accessible price points. The brand's recent commitment to in-house movement development, including the 1847 MC automatic and 1917 MC manual wind calibers, has strengthened their technical credentials while maintaining the design-first philosophy that has always defined the Maison."

- Paul Altieri, Founder and CEO of Bob's Watches

Why Choose Bob's Watches

When searching for pre-owned Cartier silver watches, Bob's Watches stands as a trusted destination for collectors and first-time luxury watch buyers alike. Our team of expert watchmakers and gemologists carefully authenticates every timepiece that enters our inventory, ensuring you receive only genuine Cartier watches in the condition described. We understand that purchasing a luxury watch represents a significant investment, which is why we provide detailed photography, comprehensive condition reports, and transparent pricing on every model. Our selection includes popular current production models as well as rare discontinued pieces that are increasingly difficult to find through authorized dealers.

• Rigorous authentication process performed by certified horologists
• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees or surprises
• Comprehensive warranty coverage on all pre-owned watches
• White-glove customer service from watch specialists who know Cartier
• Secure payment options and fully insured shipping
• Trade-in and upgrade programs for existing watch owners
• Easy returns and satisfaction guarantee

Sell Your Pre-Owned Watch

If you're to sell Cartier watches at the best price, Bob's Watches makes the process straightforward and rewarding. We actively purchase Cartier timepieces in all conditions, from vintage Tank models to current Santos and Panthère pieces. Our team provides fair market valuations based on current demand, condition, and completeness of the watch and its accessories. Whether you're looking to sell my Cartier to upgrade to a different model or simply to liquidate a piece you no longer wear, we offer competitive cash offers and can often complete transactions within 24 hours. The process begins with a simple online form where you can describe your watch and upload photos, after which one of our experts will contact you with a preliminary offer. We handle all shipping logistics with fully insured carriers and payment is processed immediately upon inspection and approval.