While many Cartier watches are famous for their technical innovation, this article celebrates a different kind of achievement. Certain timepieces have transcended watchmaking to become legends in their own right. Their enduring presence on the wrists of the world’s most influential figures—from pioneering aviators and royalty to today’s red-carpet elite—has cemented their iconic status. To discover the fascinating stories behind these coveted models, explore our definitive list.
Calibre de Cartier
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Launched in 2010, the Calibre de Cartier collection was a major turning point, introducing the 1904 MC caliber, Cartier’s first self-made movement. This milestone marked a crucial shift away from reliance on foreign manufacturers like Jaeger-LeCoultre, which established the brand as a prominent participant in horology. With its large and sporty case, it specifically targets modern male watch collectors.
Cartier Tank A Vis
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The Tank à Vis joined the prestigious Collection Privée Cartier Paris in 1998 and is a descendant of the 1931 waterproof Tank Étanche. This exclusive model features a manual-wind Calibre 437MC and features the Tank’s classic rectangular shape, often in precious metals with an intricate guilloché dial.
Pasha de Cartier
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Originally crafted by Louis Cartier in 1932, the Pasha holds the title of the brand’s first waterproof watch. It was specially created for the Sultan of Marrakech, who wished to bathe with his wristwatch on. A distinctive feature of the watch is its screw-down crown cover, which is attached by a small chain to enhance its water resistance.
Santos de Cartier
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The Santos de Cartier watch was first introduced in 1904, a creation inspired by the friendship between Louis Cartier and aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. As the first purpose-built wristwatch, it let him check time mid-flight and featured a radical square bezel with exposed screws. This groundbreaking design not only solved a practical problem but also helped make wristwatches fashionable for men.
Panthère de Cartier
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Princess Diana’s Panthère de Cartier, a gift from Dodi Al Fayed, is famed for its bold, elegant design. This classic timepiece features a distinctive square case with rounded corners and a gold bracelet with black onyx and diamonds, showcasing luxury and sophistication, with a touch of rebellious spirit.
Tank Américaine
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Spotted on former First Lady Michelle Obama, the Tank Américaine is a powerful statement. Introduced in 1989, it was the first Tank model to have a waterproof case, blending elegance with enhanced functionality. Its modern design features an elongated rectangular case, uniquely curved to fit the wrist. The watch is an assertive take on the classic Tank.
Cartier Tank Must XL
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The Tank Must XL runs on the in-house Caliber 1847 MC automatic movement, ultimately showcasing Cartier’s modern watchmaking. Its generous 41mm by 31mm case features a calendar aperture at six o’clock and is defined by a beaded crown set with a synthetic spinel and classic blued-steel sword-shaped hands.
Cartier Vendôme
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Introduced around 1973, the Vendôme pays tribute to Paris’s iconic Place Vendôme, with unique lugs representing the streets leading to it. As part of the accessible “Must de Cartier” line, it was the first collection from the brand to feature a modern quartz movement, attracting younger enthusiasts.
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