The Evolution of the Cartier Watch

Cartier has an extensive history and experience with watch-making and design. They’ve pioneered trends in watch-making that has changed the way we look at timepieces.

Let’s take a look at Cartier’s fascinating history and explore the evolution of their watch design.

The Evolution of Cartier – A Timeline

1874 – After an apprenticeship with watchmaker Adolphe Picard, Louis Cartier took over Picard’s jewellery business in Paris. At this time, the business focused its efforts on watches that could be worn as brooches or a chatelaine.

1905 – Pocket watches were one of the popular forms of timepiece, and in-keeping with the trend, Cartier also created watches in this style.

1904 – Santos Dumont. Cartier helped propel the popularity of men’s wristwatches. He filled a gap in the market when he created the first pilot watch for Alberto Santos Dumont. As the watch had a large contrasting dial, Dumont could read it at a glance, without losing focus of his plane’s controls. The Santos watch went on sale in 1911.

1906 – Tonneau has a distinct curved case and long face. It was originally designed for men and is considered a dress watch. To reinvent the design, newer models have an enlarged case and slightly wider strap.

1912 – Tortue is often confused with the Tonneau because of their similar curved cases, but the two have their own separate identity. The Tortue isn’t as long and the case isn’t as slim; the Tortue’s dial does not sit flush with the case as the Tonneau does and it has two subdials, whereas the Tonneau does not.

1919 – Tank was inspired by the tracks on a tank truck, which is reflected in the watch bracelet. Another stand out feature is the strap, which sits seamlessly beside the watch face – this was a real innovation at the time. The Tank later became a sought after timepiece, worn by the famous Princess Diana, Jackie Kennedy, Grace Kelly and Andy Warhol to name a few.

1933 – Pasha was one of the earliest water resistant watches. It was commissioned by the Pasha of Marrakech who requested a watch suitable for swimming.

2007 – Ballon Bleu is one of Cartier’s iconic watches. Worn by royals like Kate Middleton, it’s a much-loved piece because of its rounded pebble case, comfortable fit and elegant design. A unique feature is the crown guard that slopes over the sapphire cabochon crown.

2016 – Astromystériux has an ingenious design in which the movement system suspended in the centre of the watch dial and it rotates with each hour. It’s a design that succeeds in creating intrigue and immediate interest. The Astromystériux is just one testament to the development and height of experimentation that Cartier is willing to undertake in order to evolve as a brand.

We respect and admire the craftsmanship Cartier invests into each and every one of their timepieces and the way they continue to reinvent old designs with a contemporary touch.  We understand luxury jewellery brands like Cartier and love to showcase their timepieces within our stock. To find out more, take a look at our stock online or visit us in person!