Few jewellers command the same respect as French powerhouse Cartier. With celebrated releases adorning wrists for more than a century, a Cartier watch is a must-have for any enthusiast’s collection.
Since its founding by Louis-François Cartier in Paris in 1847, Cartier has been synonymous with luxury and elegance. Over the years, the brand has cemented its legacy at the pinnacle of the luxury industry, renowned for exquisite pieces that boast iconic designs. Cartier’s transformation into a global luxury brand can be credited to Louis-François’ grandchildren – Louis, Pierre, and Jacques – who propelled the French brand beyond Paris, releasing innovative designs that set the standard in haute horlogerie.
From the introduction of the first Cartier Tank in 1917, with its revolutionary rectangle case, Roman numeral dial, and sapphire cabochon crown, to the iconic Cartier Crash of the late ’60s, Cartier has released numerous iconic pieces that have stood the test of time. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the hottest Cartier releases available in 2024.
Santos de Cartier Dumont-Rewind
Reference Number: WGSA0102
Case Material: Steel
Case Size: 31.4mm
Price: $38,400 USD (~$58,400 AUD)
One of Cartier’s most iconic collections, the Santos de Cartier needs no introduction. Featuring the brand’s signature square dial, the Cartier Santos-Dumont is arguably one of the world’s first-ever pilot watches, named after aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Released this year at Watches & Wonders, the limited edition platinum release features a striking carnelian dial with reverse-counting Roman numerals, a feat of modern watchmaking. With only 200 pieces available, it’s a rare find.
Ballon Bleu de Cartier, Rose Gold, Blue Dial
Reference Number: WGBB0036
Case Material: Rose Gold
Case Size: 42mm
Price: $23,900 AUD
The Ballon Bleu represents elegance with its slimline design and curvaceous body. This model, finished with a blue dial and matching blue alligator-skin strap, adds a touch of class. As with all Ballon Bleu watches, a sapphire cabochon is set within the crown, a feature imitated across Cartier’s other timepieces, making them instantly recognizable.
Santos de Cartier Skeleton
Reference Number: WHSA0015
Case Material: Steel
Case Size: 28mm
Price: $49,500
The Santos de Cartier Skeleton features skeletonized bridges that form Cartier’s signature Roman numeral aesthetic. The manually wound Calibre 9611 MC is visible through the pockets of this stunning piece, making it a sophisticated release from a luxury watchmaker at the peak of its powers.
Cartier Crash
Reference Number: WGBB0036
Case Material: Rose Gold
Price: $482,000 AUD (secondary market)
The Cartier Crash is known for its warped, fluid lines and contoured edges. Spotted on the wrists of celebrities and sports stars, this iconic piece is a rare find, often fetching high prices on the secondary market.
Santos de Cartier
Reference Number: WSSA0064
Case Material: Steel
Case Size: 39.8mm
Price: $12,600 AUD
The Santos de Cartier holds the distinction of being one of the first-ever pilot watches. Today’s iteration, released at this year’s Watches & Wonders, features a satin-finish gradated brown dial that contrasts well behind the polished sword-shaped hands.
Cartier Tank Solo XL, Pink Gold
Reference Number: W5200026
Case Material: 18K Pink Gold and Stainless Steel
Case Size: 31mm x 40.85mm
Price: $12,800 AUD
The Tank Solo XL, presented on a brown alligator-skin strap and finished in 18K rose gold and stainless steel, is quintessential Cartier. This model features a self-winding automatic movement, making it a specialty within the Tank Solo collection.
Santos de Cartier, Black
Reference Number: WSSA0039
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Size: 47.5mm x 39.8mm
Price: $11,600 AUD
The all-black Santos de Cartier, achieved via an Amorphous Diamond-Like Carbon (ADLC) coating, includes a black dial and black date window. The intricate details, such as the black rubber strap with screw-shaped rivets, exemplify Cartier’s craftsmanship.
Cartier Tank MC
Reference Number: W5330003
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Size: 44mm x 34mm
Price: $10,600 AUD
The Tank MC uses an in-house manufacture movement, the 1904 calibre, powering hours, minutes, seconds sub-dial, and date. Its slightly curved case design improves wear on the wrist, making it an appealing choice for collectors.
Cartier’s 2024 releases continue the brand’s tradition of blending elegance with cutting-edge innovation, offering pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. Whether you’re a long-time collector or new to the world of haute horlogerie, these watches are sure to impress.
