Cartier: Watchmaking’s Style Icon with Serious Substance

At Belmont Watches, we appreciate brands that know exactly who they are — and Cartier has never wavered in its identity. Known as the “jeweler of kings,” Cartier helped define luxury watch design in the 20th century and continues to lead with elegance, proportion, and purpose.

From creating one of the world’s first pilot watches to designing some of the most iconic cases in horology, Cartier is more than a fashion name — it’s a cornerstone of watchmaking history.

A Parisian Legacy Since 1847

Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier built its reputation crafting high jewelry for royalty, artists, and tastemakers. By the early 20th century, Cartier expanded into watchmaking with designs that challenged the round-case standard of the era.

Louis Cartier, grandson of the founder, designed the Santos wristwatch in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. It was one of the world’s first purpose-built pilot watches — rectangular, elegant, and functional.

Browse Cartier watches at Belmont

Iconic Models That Defined Eras

Cartier Tank (1917)

Inspired by the shape of WWI tanks, the Cartier Tank is one of the most enduring dress watch designs ever made. From Jackie Kennedy to Andy Warhol, its clean lines and rectangular case have been worn by cultural icons for over a century.

Cartier Santos (1904)

Still in production today, the Santos was ahead of its time. Its exposed screws, integrated lugs, and mix of dress and sport aesthetics influenced modern luxury watch design.

Ballon Bleu and Drive de Cartier

Modern additions like the Ballon Bleu and Drive de Cartier bring contemporary curves and boldness to the brand’s lineup while retaining Cartier’s DNA of refinement.

Explore Cartier Tank and Santos watches

Cartier’s Watchmaking Credibility

While often praised for its design, Cartier also delivers serious watchmaking. The brand operates a manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds and has produced high-complication pieces like minute repeaters and tourbillons.

Movements like the 1904-MC automatic and Cartier’s ultra-thin calibers reflect a commitment to in-house innovation.

Collectors respect Cartier for its:

• Historic importance

• Artistic design language

• Investment-worthy resale value

• Dual strength in vintage and modern markets

Why Collectors Love Cartier

• Iconic watch designs recognized across the world

• Elegance that pairs with anything from jeans to black tie

• Real watchmaking behind the jewelry reputation

• Versatility across gender and style

• Timeless pieces with lasting value

Whether you are drawn to a vintage Tank Louis or a modern Santos skeleton, Cartier makes watches that leave a mark.

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Final Thoughts from Belmont Watches

Cartier is where form meets function, where Parisian flair meets Swiss precision. Few brands deliver on both art and engineering the way Cartier does.

We carry a curated selection of Cartier watches that showcase the brand’s range, from historic icons to contemporary pieces.

Explore our Cartier collection today and let us help you find the piece that fits your story.