A brilliant little slice of 1990s Cartier—elegant, playful, and instantly recognisable. This ladies Cartier Vendôme pairs the classic rounded case profile with an unusually eye-catching “Trinity” three-colour dial, where warm tones (yellow, rose and white) create a soft, jewellery-like contrast at the centre. Around that sits a crisp white chapter ring carrying Cartier’s signature Roman numerals, giving you that unmistakable “Cartier at a glance” look.
The result is a watch that feels both dressy and easy—smart enough for an evening out, but not so precious you wouldn’t wear it daily. The blued hands (and that clean Roman track) keep it firmly in the Cartier design language, while the three-tone centre adds a little extra personality without being loud.
The 'Must De' Cartier concept was first introduced around 1973 when the Cartier lighter became the must-have accessory. Cartier branched out from jewellery to pens, leather goods, fragrances and more affordable watches. One of the main ways they transformed their designs way by making them out of vermeil, or silver gilt, which is gold-plated sterling silver. This made the watches more affordable whilst still having the prestige of being made from a precious metal. Various sizes, dial colours and finishes were then produced for both men and women. The Must de Cartier line was faded out at the beginning of the 21st century.
Extra Points
This Ronde Vendome has the trademark of the blue-steel, sword-shaped hands. The classic, Roman numerals are also there , adding that extra touch of elegance and sophistication.
Where the “Trinity” name comes from: Cartier’s Trinity motif is one of the maison’s most famous design signatures, originally popularised through the Trinity ring—a piece built around three interlinked bands in yellow, rose and white gold, traditionally said to symbolise love, fidelity and friendship. The same three-metal harmony shows up here as a dial design cue: different tones working together, rather than a single flat colour.
Why “Vendôme”: The Vendôme name nods to Place Vendôme in Paris—arguably the city’s most famous luxury square and a spiritual home of high jewellery. Cartier’s long association with the area (and its “jeweller to the world” identity) makes Vendôme an apt label for a watch that sits right on the border between timepiece and jewellery.
The watch comes on a French made brown strap. Fully serviced via our workshop with 12 months service cover
What we think
We love Cartier here at AWC. They are becoming hard to find in this excellent condition. It is a brand that offers timeless elegance across all of its watches, yet never fails to produce a variety of adaptations in its classic designs. This is Cartier doing what Cartier does best: a timeless silhouette, a dial you can’t stop looking at, and small details that feel considered. The Trinity dial gives it a rare twist—still unmistakably Cartier, but with a warmth and depth you don’t see every day. Do not forget to view our other Cartier watches HERE!
Spec Stuff
Reference : RondeVermeil Trinity Vendôme
Movement : SwissQuartz Cal. 81 Age : 1991/2000 Specific Age : Circa 1990s Case Size : 24mm Case Thickness : 5mm Lug to Lug : 30mm Lugs : 14mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : Cartier style Box Case Material : 925 Sterling Silver Gilt Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
1990s Ladies Cartier 'Must de' Vendôme Trinity Roman chapter Dial in Vermeil 925 Silver Gilt
