Introduction

There are few jewelers as famous and sought after as Cartier. This Parisian maison is a true institution, with roots in the mid 19th century and a tradition of high quality, upscale pieces of wearable art. Cartier was and is a tastemaker, defining and popularizing much of the jewelry we know and use today. This is especially true in their wristwatches, which changed the way we tell time. As a result of their illustrious history and beautiful design, Cartier sells excellently at auction. Nest Egg Auctions is pleased to have sold a number of delightful examples of Cartier throughout the years.

History

Cartier was founded in Paris by Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847. In 1859, Cartier had opened their first store in Paris. By the early 20th century, Cartier had a foothold in Paris, London, and New York. Under Louis-Francois’ sons, the brand grew extensively. In 1904, King Edward VII of the United Kingdom granted Cartier a Royal Warrant, meaning that they were an official jeweler of the British Crown.

Cartier Love Bracelet. 18 karat rose gold. Late 20th - early 21st century.

Cartier Watches

The Paris branch of Cartier, led by Louis Cartier, was fundamental in the popularization of the wristwatch. Louis’ friend Alberto Santos-Dumont, a pilot in the First World War, inspired Louis to create the first popular wristwatch. This watch is called the Santos. Another watch design, based on the design of tanks seen on the battlefields of France in World War I, inspired the Cartier Tank Watch. Like the Santos, the Tank is still made and appreciated today.

Les Must de Cartier Ladies Tank Watch. 18 karat gold electroplate bezel. Late 20th century.

Cartier Today

The Cartier brand has grown to be one of the most sought after luxury brands in the world: it is worth around $12.4 billion dollars in 2022, and is the 56th most valuable brand according to Forbes. Cartier is currently held by Richemont, a major holding company of many illustrious brands. These include Buccellati, Van Cleef & Arpels, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Montblanc, and more. Of all of these, however, Cartier is perhaps the most beloved. Cartier’s dedication to design, fine materials, and classic style makes Cartier an eternally popular and sought after brand.

Cartier Art Deco Compact. 14 karat yellow and rose gold. Early to mid 20th century.

Selling Cartier at Nest Egg Auctions

Nest Egg Auctions has had the privilege of selling a number of Cartier pieces throughout our years in the auction business. These have included a number of Tank watches, which always bring a good price at auction. The Cartier Tank watch is a classic statement, showing a cultured, worldly style that is unmatched. As such, they bring good prices at our auction.

Other fine Cartier pieces we have sold have included a collection of Cartier cufflinks and button studs, gold rings, bracelets, and even a small purse. These pieces have sold exceedingly well, for their name as well as for what the name represents. When someone purchases a piece of Cartier jewelry (or even a Cartier picture frame), they can expect a piece of the highest quality. Thus, Cartier pieces are worthy of passing on to generations forever afterward. Thus, we are always happy to sell pieces by Cartier, as are our worldwide buyers.

Selling Cartier at Nest Egg Auctions

Have a piece of Cartier that you'd like to sell? Nest Egg Auctions would love to sell it for you for the highest price!