A brilliant 1990s Cartier 21 series in classic two-tone (stainless steel & gold), reference W1007323. The 21 sits in that sweet spot of Cartier design: instantly recognisable, a little more “sport-luxe” than a Tank, but still properly elegant.

This example features the signature engraved Roman numeral bezel with gold accents, the clean Cartier signed dial, and that superb two-tone bracelet that wears comfortably while still feeling substantial on the wrist. Powered by a reliable Swiss quartz movement, it’s a true “grab-and-go” Cartier that keeps excellent time with minimal fuss.

Extra Points 

 In 1847 Louis-Francois Cartier founded Cartier in Paris, France. He quickly established himself within the aristocracy of society. In 1903 he created their first men's wristwatch, inspired by his pilot friend Alberto Santos-Dumont, who called it the Santos. In 1907 Cartier began a partnership with Edmond Jaeger of the pre-eminent watch brand Jaeger-LeCoultre. Jaeger agreed to become the exclusive supplier of watch movements for Cartier. In 1917 they debuted the Tank. Their watches were so popular that copies soon appeared to counteract this. Cartier introduced reference numbers to each watch.

In 1919 they introduced the Tank which was inspired by the robust American tank used in the first world war. It has been famously worn by many over the years including Andy Warhol, Alain Delon, Clarke Gable, Catherine Deneuve and Duke Ellington.

The early watches were all handmade in France, with movements by Jaeger.

In 1972, a group of investors led by financial wizard Joseph Kanoui bought the company. During 1973 we saw the first “Must de Cartier” boutique opened in Biarritz, followed by one in Singapore.

Spec Stuff