Cartier has been adorning the wrists and fingers of society’s elite for centuries. Its early patrons include some of the most influential, ranging from actors to members of royal families and American dynasties. While the brand’s market has certainly broadened in the 21st century, Cartier is still widely regarded as a status symbol and remains the favorite jewelry brand for many of our local celebrities and heiresses.
But before we delve into the stars sporting Cartier today, let's embark on a journey through the history of this iconic maison and uncover the stories behind its most celebrated pieces.
A Brief History of Cartier
Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, it wasn't until 1856, when Princess Mathilde, the young cousin of Napoleon III, acquired a Cartier creation. It was the pivotal moment for the maison as it was when they started gaining prominence, propelling the brand into the realm of Parisian high society. The brand would then achieve international acclaim, thanks to his grandsons Louis, Pierre, and Jacques.
Louis, the creative force behind the brand, established the Cartier boutique on 13 rue de la Paix in Paris. His brothers then divided and conquered in the following years, with Pierre and Jacques establishing boutiques in London and New York, respectively. This strategic expansion laid the foundation for Cartier's global legacy.
Cartier’s Most Iconic Pieces and How Much They Cost
1. Tank Watch
Finding inspiration in the most unusual of places, the Tank watch was created amidst the turmoil of World War I by the brand’s founder Louis-François Cartier. Inspired by the firm lines and stately proportions of Renault tanks, the rectangular silhouette mirrors the top view of the vehicle, making it a timeless masterpiece with Art Deco design codes. Its popularity endures, cementing the Tank as one of the most sought-after timepieces. The tank now comes in several iterations, namely the Française, Louis Cartier, Américaine, Must, Chinoise, and Cintrée.
Tank Française Watch, $22,300 (approx. P1,247,920), CARTIER, cartier.com
2. Trinity Ring
Designed by Louis Cartier in 1924, the Trinity ring is a three-band masterpiece representing fidelity, enduring friendship, and true love through intertwined bands of yellow gold, platinum, and rose gold. A stark contrast to the colorful Art Deco trends of the 1920s, the Trinity ring's simplicity and magnetic beauty have made it a cult classic that withstands the test of time.
Trinity Ring, $2810 (approx. P157,250), CARTIER, cartier.com
3. Crash Watch
In 1967, Cartier London created the bold and original Crash watch, seemingly damaged by the wheels of a car. Despite resembling Salvador Dali's distorted timepiece in "The Persistence of Memory," the Crash watch has no connection to the surrealist painting. Legend has it that the idea sparked when a client brought in a damaged Baignoire after a car accident, showcasing Cartier's creativity and daring approach to design. Crash watches are one of the most sought-after but rare Cartier watches. A single Crash, depending on the strap and embellishments can go for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The particular one listed below was up for auction at Sotheby’s for 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 HKD. That’s approximately P7,153,500 to P14,306,950!
4. Love Bracelet
Crafted in New York by Aldo Cipullo during the "make love, not war" era of the '60s, the Love bracelet is a unisex masterpiece inspired by the concept of a chastity belt. With industrial-style screws locking the bracelet onto the wearer's wrist, it symbolizes a love contract. Interestingly, Cipullo initially presented his prototype to Tiffany & Co., but after facing rejection, he turned to Cartier as the eventual home for his masterpiece. The Love bracelet now comes in earring, ring, and necklace form, with prices ranging from $590 to $63,500.
Love Bracelet, $7350 (approx. P411,310), CARTIER, cartier.com
5. Juste Un Clou Bracelet
Released around the same time as the Love bracelet is the Nail, another creation by Aldo Cipullo, later renamed Juste Un Clou (which literally means "only a nail") in the 2010s. Exemplifying Cartier's desire to elevate simplicity. Engraved ridges resembling hardware nails add sophistication, emphasizing Cartier's commitment to reducing an object to its purest expression. You can get the bracelet in white, rose, and yellow gold and can even have pavé diamonds embellished on it. Just be prepared to shell out anywhere between $3600 to $85,000.
Juste Un Clou Bracelet, $3600 (approx. P201,460), CARTIER, cartier.com
Local Celebrities and Heiresses Wearing Cartier
1. Heart Evangelista
2. Kelsey Merritt
3. Rocio Zobel
4. Nikki Huang
5. Sarah Lahbati
Cartier Stores in the Philippines
Thinking about investing on fine jewelry? Make your way to the Cartier stores in Greenbelt 3, The Shoppes at Solaire, and Rustan's Shangri-La Plaza Mall to find your luxurious dream piece.
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