Today, Cartier is known for crafting fine jewelry more than anything else. But the company is also an iconic name in watchmaking, and its pieces have remained a standard when it comes to luxury design. However, navigating the ever-popular Cartier women’s watch collections can be daunting for newcomers. The recent introduction of new models has piqued interest, but many potential buyers remain hesitant about investing in these elegant and luxurious timepieces, given their prestige and price point.
The process of selecting women’s Cartier watches can be particularly challenging without proper guidance. Many of Cartier’s classic styles are designed to be unisex, which can make choosing the perfect timepiece for a special someone an intimidating task. The subtle nuances between models and the array of options available may overwhelm those unfamiliar with the brand’s horological offerings. To assist in this selection process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide and a set of helpful tips to ensure you find the ideal Cartier watch that perfectly balances style, functionality, and personal taste.
Cartier Watch Women Love: The Universal Features
From pioneering the first pilot’s watch to introducing the modern Cartier Drive model, the company has crafted an impressive array of timepieces over the past century. This diversity is particularly evident when conducting a Cartier Tank review, as this iconic line has evolved significantly since its inception. Any comprehensive Cartier Tank review will highlight the variety of shapes, configurations, and materials available – from gold and steel to two-toned versions. Earlier Tank models feature manual winding mechanisms, while more recent iterations incorporate quartz movements such as the Caliber 687 or Caliber 157.
There might be a dizzying array of timepieces and designs, but Cartier’s watches are iconic for a reason: there are certain watch design codes that appear across almost all their products. Thanks to these features, Cartier watches are instantly recognizable. These are the cues that make the timepieces distinguished and, well, timeless.
- Most Cartier watches have black Roman numerals instead of Arabic numbers, with a silver dial and blue, sword-shaped hands.
- They have an engraved case back that bears the brand name.
- Cartier watches have a secret signature hidden in either the VII or X numeral, which helps in differentiating between fake and genuine watches.
- A blue cabochon sapphire or spinel is set into the crown, alluding to the company’s jewelry-making background.
Tips for Buying a Cartier Watch for Women
When shopping for women’s Cartier watches, you’ll want to remember that the designs are the same for men and women. The only differences are the sizes. So you’ll want to consider your options and get the watch that fits your or your recipient’s style and preferences.
Personal Style
Cartier watches can go from simple and elegant to bold and flashy, so you’ll want to pick one that suits your personal style. As we’ve mentioned, there’s an assortment of designs available. Do you prefer models with a classic watch face or ones with visible mechanisms? What about the shape? The more whimsical shapes exude personality and refusal to follow the norms, while the circular timepieces can be worn on any occasion. There’s also the matter of bands, which can be thick or thin, made of leather, metal, or other materials.
Budget
Cartier is a luxury brand, so the most affordable options are still pricey. But if money is not an issue, then feel free to choose whichever model or design you want. For those on a budget, you can select a watch belonging to a price range you can afford. You can also wait for sales, clearances, and discounts if you want to get something in the higher range.
One alternative is to buy pre-owned Cartier watches from companies like Bob’s Watches. We have a small selection of used Cartier timepieces, with new ones added regularly. Even though you’re buying a pre-owned item, you’re still getting a luxurious piece that works like new – perfect for your special woman!
Activities of the Wearer
You’ll want to consider how your recipient will wear the watch, as some of the motions and activities can affect the ideal watch setting. In some cases, watches will gain or lose time if they’re set in a single position for a long time, so self-winding watches will be better for people who wear timepieces on their wrists more frequently.
Other Demands
What other preferences will you or your recipient have? Will they need a watch that can go with any outfit? Or will it be something they’d only wear during important events or occasions? Will the design be a huge factor or will they be content with any kind of Cartier timepiece? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you narrow down your selection.
Keep an Eye Out for These Models
1. Cartier Tank
If there’s one model that you should watch out for, it’s the Cartier Tank. It’s arguably the most famous watch from the company, beloved by all since it was released in the 1910s. The cult-like status surrounding it makes Cartier Tank wristwatches high-demand items in the pre-worn market. Its iconic “Tank” design is inspired by tanks used during World War I, with the extended vertical case sides resembling the wheels of the war machine.
There are many iterations of the Cartier Tank watches, including:
While the tank may seem like a masculine symbol, Cartier’s watchmakers have created designs that suit more feminine tastes, so you can still choose this model as a gift to a special lady.
2. Cartier Santos
Also known as Santos de Cartier, this model is famed for its square shape. It was inspired by the first wristwatches crafted by Louis-Francois Cartier. This was the one used by a Brazilian pilot in an engine-powered flight – the first true pilot watch. From that design came the Cartier Santos, with visible screws on the bezel that surely make a statement.
When examining the evolution of the Santos line, many a Cartier Santos review notes that its initial designs were decidedly bulky and better suited to a masculine aesthetic. However, as any comprehensive Cartier Santos review will point out, the collection has diversified significantly over the decades, introducing variations that cater to women’s preferences as well. Beyond the array of design options, a typical Cartier Santos review often highlights the line’s relative affordability within the luxury watch market. This accessibility makes the Santos an attractive option for those seeking to own a Cartier timepiece without breaking the bank, positioning it as an ideal gift choice or entry point into the world of luxury watches.
3. Cartier Ballon Bleu
While the Santos and Tank both have quadrilateral shapes, the Cartier Ballon Bleu collection is circular. But don’t dismiss it yet. It’s still far from a traditional circular watch, with the sapphire crown nestled into the watch face. The result is a unique look that references the model’s name, “blue balloon.”
The Ballon Bleu lineup is one of the newer designs, first released in 2007. But the pebble-like design has enamored many watch collectors and regular buyers alike. The contemporary aesthetic makes it a perfect present for those who like to show off their personality while maintaining an air of charm and elegance. It’s been the favorite of many female celebrities and personalities, making it a great status symbol for anyone who wears it.
4. Cartier Drive
Also called Drive de Cartier, this is the latest model released by the company. It’s only been around since 2016, but the unique look has already made it a flawless staple amongst the collections of watch enthusiasts. It has a refined silhouette of a rounded square, with a curved base and sapphire dials crafted with precision and care.
Thanks to the masterful proportions, the Cartier Drive watch models have timeless beauty fit for both men and women. It’s also got more modern features that add a bit more functionality to it. Some can show dual time zones while another variation has a flying tourbillon. The Drive model is simply more than just your regular luxury watch.
5. Cartier Calibre
While production of the Calibre de Cartier watch collection stopped in 2018, this model continues to have high demand, especially in the pre-worn market. It’s the first line with Cartier’s in-house-made movement, with a circular design bordered by prominent curved lugs. There are also railroad patterns, sword dials, and baton indices that add a vintage touch to an otherwise modern design.
The most prominent characteristic of the Calibre is how readable it is, with a large watch face and legible dials. While these features give off a more masculine look, there are a few variations and straps that make the Calibre an excellent statement piece for ladies. There are also plenty of variations available, from chronographs to divers.
6. Cartier Panthere
The Cartier Panthère, a combination of exquisite jewelry and precise timekeeping, stands out with its unique design featuring gold, diamonds, and gemstones, appealing to women who seek to be noticed. These watches, inspired by their namesake wildcat, are made from premium materials like gold and diamonds, with some models fully encrusted in gems. Introduced in 1914 with a design that emulated panther fur, the collection gained fame through Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s creative director, who integrated the panther motif into various jewelry pieces. The collection was revived in the 1980s with updated quartz movements and a design similar to the Cartier Santos, solidifying its status as one of Cartier’s most sought-after lines. The Panthère de Cartier series offers a range of options from simple stainless steel to lavish diamond-set gold pieces, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
7. Cartier Pasha
The Cartier Pasha, first introduced in 1985, is a cult classic watch that has been rejuvenated for the 2020s, blending originality, power, and a unique mix of elegance and sporty appeal. Available in various models for both men and women, these watches come in automatic, chronograph, and quartz movements and are crafted from materials ranging from stainless steel to 18k gold, often adorned with diamonds.
The Pasha de Cartier is not only a luxurious timepiece but also a symbol of wealth, style, and an investment that could increase in value over time, making it a sought-after accessory among high-profile personalities like James Bond and Sophia Loren. Known for its extravagant features and intricate designs, the Pasha de Cartier has evolved since its initial release, maintaining its charm and elegance while adapting to contemporary tastes. Key features of these watches include automatic winding, sapphire crystal impact protection, luminescent hands, and water resistance up to 300 meters, making them as functional as they are stylish. The Pasha de Cartier collection offers a range of models to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring there is a perfect match for every watch enthusiast.
8. Cartier Baignoire
First introduced in 1958 and named Baignoire in 1973, this Cartier watch embodies timeless French chic with its elegant, elongated oval shape that gracefully curves around the wrist. The Cartier Baignoire showcases Cartier’s expertise in crafting unique shapes, offering various gold finishes and often adorned with pavé diamonds for a regal touch. Despite its evolution over the years, the Baignoire retains its classic oval design and has become an icon of feminine beauty since its inception in 1913, featuring a silver-grained dial with Roman numerals and available in manual or quartz movements.
9. Cartier Tortue
The Cartier Tortue, dating back to 1912, is the third watch design by Louis Cartier, following the Santos-Dumont and Tonneau, and is named after its unique, turtle-shaped case. Renowned for housing Cartier’s early complications, including minute repeaters and monopusher chronographs, the Tortue combines classic Cartier elegance with innovative design, making it a favorite among discerning watch enthusiasts. While the Tortue is water-resistant up to 30 meters, it is more suited as a dress watch for formal occasions rather than for water sports or swimming. Although no longer featured on Cartier’s website, the Tortue, particularly sought-after models like the limited 2006 XL version in platinum or pink gold, remains available through pre-owned retailers. The Tortue’s distinctive case shape, enhanced Breguet style hands, and features like the Grande Date and small seconds dial, offer a blend of traditional elegance and masculine appeal, setting it apart in the Cartier collection.
10. Cartier Roadster
Introduced in 2001, the racing-inspired Cartier Roadster collection pays homage to the golden era of 1950s sports cars, incorporating elements from this period into its design, like the curved case and Porsche-inspired dials. While the Roadster line was discontinued in 2012, its various models, including the Chronograph, GMT, XL, and limited editions, remain sought after in the pre-owned market. Louis Cartier, a pioneer of non-round watch cases, influenced the Roadster’s barrel-shaped design, blending robust sports watch features with Cartier’s signature elegance.
The Roadster’s automotive-inspired details include a tonneau case reminiscent of 1950s car designs, screws resembling headlights, a crown echoing car radiators, and dials influenced by car speedometers. The Roadster collection, available in different sizes and materials like stainless steel and gold, featured a quick-release strap system and catered to both men and women. With its blend of sportiness and sophistication, the Roadster was a versatile choice for everyday wear, offering water resistance up to 100 meters and a range of models including automatic, quartz, and various special dials. Despite its discontinuation, the Cartier Roadster remains a symbol of modern elegance, embodying Cartier’s legacy in crafting timeless, innovative watches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best Cartier watch for ladies is a journey through elegance, style, and timeless luxury. With our comprehensive guide and expert reviews, you now have the insights needed to make an informed choice. Remember, understanding all the facts about Cartier watches is essential in appreciating the craftsmanship and heritage behind each timepiece, ensuring that your investment is not only in beauty but in enduring quality. Whether you’re drawn to the classic Tank or the modern Ballon Bleu, a Cartier watch is a symbol of sophistication that will stand the test of time.
