Cartier – History, Foundation & Iconic Watch Models

A milestone in Cartier’s watchmaking history came in 1904 with the creation of the Cartier Santos de Cartier. Louis Cartier designed it for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont — making it the first mass-produced men’s wristwatch and also the world’s first pilot’s watch. This marked the beginning of the modern luxury wristwatch.

In the following years, other iconic models were created: the Cartier Tonneau (1906), Cartier Baignoire, and Cartier Tortue (1912). In 1917, Cartier introduced the legendary Cartier Tank, inspired by the lines of French tanks. The Tank remains one of Cartier’s most famous models, known for its clean lines, elegant design, and timeless sophistication.

In the 1980s, Cartier launched the Panthère de Cartier — an elegant model with a square case and supple link bracelet. With the Ballon Bleu de Cartier (2007) and the Cartier Pasha de Cartier, the brand continued its tradition of innovation and excellence.

For over 175 years, Cartier has represented luxury, technical excellence, and French refinement. What began as a Parisian jewelry workshop has become an international luxury brand for watches, jewelry, and accessories. Cartier combines classic shapes, like those of the Tank and Santos, with modern materials such as steel-gold combinations, sapphire crystal, and innovative automatic movements like the Caliber 1847 MC.

Cartier remains a trendsetter, not a trend follower. Models like the Tank, Santos, Panthère, and Ballon Bleu are timeless classics. At the same time, Cartier sets standards for responsible luxury through sustainable initiatives such as the Cartier Women’s Initiative and its use of Fairmined gold.