Since 1847, Cartier has defined the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking, creating timepieces that seamlessly blend jewellery artistry with horological excellence. The prestigious maison’s most coveted watches, including the iconic Cartier Tank, Santos, and Panthère collections, represent timeless elegance. Each authentic pre-owned Cartier watch showcases the brand’s signature design elements, from the distinctive Roman numerals to the sapphire-crowned winding mechanisms, making these luxury timepieces instantly recognisable among collectors and connoisseurs.
For those seeking to purchase used Cartier watches, the secondary market offers access to both classic models and rare limited editions, each piece carrying the heritage of this renowned jewellery house and master watchmaker. At MVS Watches, we present to you a collection of both unworn and pre-owned Cartier timepieces, inviting you to embrace the legacy of sophistication and innovation.
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Cartier’s watchmaking legacy began in 1904 when Louis Cartier created one of the world’s first purpose-designed wristwatches for his friend, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. This groundbreaking timepiece, which would later evolve into the Santos collection, marked the transition from pocket watches to wristwatches and established Cartier as a visionary in the field.
Throughout its illustrious history, Cartier has created numerous iconic designs that have stood the test of time:
Cartier’s unique position as both master jeweller and watchmaker has enabled the maison to create timepieces that transcend mere timekeeping to become genuine works of art. Each era has seen Cartier adapt to changing tastes while maintaining the essential elegance and precision that defines the brand.
The Santos holds a special place in horological history as one of the world’s first purpose-designed wristwatches. Created in 1904 for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, this revolutionary timepiece allowed pilots to check the time while keeping both hands on the controls, a significant advancement over pocket watches.
The distinctive square case with exposed screws, Roman numerals, and integrated bracelet has evolved over the decades while maintaining its recognisable aesthetic. Modern Santos models range from the smaller Santos-Dumont to the bolder Santos 100, with variations in size, materials, and complications. Throughout its evolution, the Santos has maintained its perfect balance of sporty character and elegant sophistication.
Introduced in 1917 and inspired by the aerial view of military tanks from World War I, the Tank represents the perfect marriage of form and function. With its rectangular case, clean lines, and perfect proportions, the Tank embodies the Art Deco movement’s aesthetic principles and has become perhaps the most iconic rectangular watch in history.
The Tank collection has expanded to include several variations, each with its own character:
Despite these variations, all Tank watches share the distinctive Cartier DNA: Roman numerals, blue sword-shaped hands, and the signature sapphire cabochon crown.
Introduced in 1983, the Panthère de Cartier epitomises the maison’s jewellery expertise applied to watchmaking. With its supple, flowing bracelet design reminiscent of a panther’s movement, square case with screws, and signature Roman numerals, the Panthère became an instant style icon of the 1980s.
After being discontinued in the early 2000s, Cartier reintroduced the Panthère in 2017 to great acclaim. The modern collection stays true to the original design while offering various sizes and materials, from stainless steel to solid gold and diamond-set versions. The Panthère remains the perfect expression of Cartier’s ability to create watches that function as both timekeeping devices and exquisite pieces of jewellery.
Launched in 2007, the Ballon Bleu has quickly established itself as a contemporary Cartier icon. The collection is characterised by its round case with a distinctive integrated crown guard that creates a slight depression in the case side, protected by an arch that houses the sapphire cabochon crown, giving the impression of a floating blue balloon (hence the name “Ballon Bleu”).
Available in a wide range of sizes from 28mm to 46mm, in materials ranging from stainless steel to precious metals, the Ballon Bleu appeals to both men and women. Its unique combination of classic Cartier elements with innovative design touches has made it one of the maison’s most successful modern introductions.
Unlike many Swiss watch manufacturers that evolved from pure watchmaking traditions, Cartier’s roots as a jewellery house influence every aspect of their timepieces. This unique perspective brings unparalleled attention to aesthetic details, finishing techniques borrowed from jewellery crafting, and an emphasis on the decorative arts alongside mechanical excellence. The result is watches that function not just as timekeeping instruments but as wearable art.
While Cartier initially used movements from specialised Swiss manufacturers, the maison has invested significantly in developing in-house expertise in recent decades. The establishment of their Geneva manufacturing facility has allowed Cartier to create proprietary calibres, including:
Certain design elements are instantly recognisable as Cartier signatures across all their watch collections:
These consistent elements ensure that a Cartier watch is immediately identifiable, even from across a room, contributing to the brand’s strong design identity.
Authentic Cartier watches feature precise finishing with no rough edges, properly aligned Roman numerals, properly weighted and shaped cases, and flawless dial printing. The sapphire cabochon in the crown should be securely set, and the movement should match the specific model and time period. Due to Cartier’s exacting quality standards, any irregularities in finishing or alignment typically indicate a counterfeit. We would always recommend researching the person or dealer you are purchasing from using tools such as Trustpilot.
Cartier recommends servicing mechanical watches every 5 years to maintain optimal performance and water resistance. Quartz models should have batteries replaced by a professional every 2-3 years, which provides an opportunity to check gaskets and seals. Regular servicing preserves both the function and value of your Cartier timepiece.
Certain Cartier models have demonstrated healthy value retention, particularly iconic designs like the Tank Louis Cartier, vintage Santos models, and limited editions. While not all Cartier watches appreciate in value, the enduring design and prestigious brand name typically ensure stable resale value when properly maintained.
The Cartier Tank is widely considered the most iconic Cartier watch design. Created in 1917 and inspired by military tanks from WWI, its rectangular case, clean lines, and perfect proportions have made it a true design icon worn by celebrities, artists, and world leaders for over a century. The Santos, as the first purpose-designed wristwatch, holds significant historical importance as well.
New Cartier watches come with certificates of authenticity/warranty cards, and serial numbers that match the watch. When purchasing pre-owned Cartier watches, original documentation adds value but may not always be available. At MVS Watches, all our Cartier timepieces undergo professional authentication regardless of whether they have original papers or not.
Dive into the realm of Cartier pre-owned watches and own a piece of outstanding luxury. Whether you’re adding to your collection, searching for a meaningful gift, or investing in a rare timepiece, our curated selection has something extraordinary waiting for you.
Call us at 07793 488492 or email info@mvswatches.com
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