Signature Cartier watches and their design codes
Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier approached watchmaking as a jeweller, which is why its watches are recognised from across a room. A few codes run through almost every model: Roman numerals, a railway-track minute ring, blued sword-shaped hands and a crown often set with a blue cabochon.
- Tank: a clean rectangular case whose side bars flow into the strap. Understated and equally at home with a suit or a summer shirt.
- Santos: a square case with visible screws on the bezel, originally conceived for the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Sportier, and usually worn on a metal bracelet.
- Ballon Bleu: a rounded case with the blue crown tucked under a protective arch. Soft, contemporary and versatile.
- Panthère de Cartier: a small square case on a supple link bracelet that sits on the wrist almost like jewellery.
Choosing Cartier watches for women and for men
Most Cartier models are offered in several sizes, so the choice is less about gender than about wrist and wardrobe.
For her, the Panthère suits someone who already wears fine jewellery daily and likes a watch that layers easily with a Cartier bracelet. A smaller Tank reads as quietly classic, while the Ballon Bleu offers a softer, rounder look.
For him, the Santos on a steel bracelet is the practical everyday choice, and a larger Tank on leather is the dress option for someone who prefers a slim watch under a cuff. Look at what the recipient wears now: a heavy sports watch suggests the Santos; a thin vintage piece points to the Tank.
A Cartier watch marks a moment that deserves to be remembered, which makes it a natural choice among anniversary gifts, milestone birthdays or graduations. If you have a model, size or metal in mind, tell us and we will come back with options.
Cartier watch prices, sizing and care
Price depends mainly on metal, size and gem-setting. Steel and quartz models sit at the accessible end, broadly in the tens of thousands of rand, while gold cases, mechanical movements and diamond-set versions rise considerably. Set a budget range first, then choose the model, and compare sizes within it.
On sizing, a bracelet can be adjusted by removing links, so you only need a rough idea of wrist size. If unsure, choose a leather strap, which is easier to adapt.
For care, wipe the case after wear, keep leather straps away from water and sunscreen, and check each model's water resistance before swimming. Mechanical movements benefit from periodic servicing by a qualified watchmaker. To compare other houses, browse our watches guide.