In 1904, Louis Cartier designed what many consider to be the first pilot’s wrist watch. It featured a flat case with a distinctive square bezel, and critically, a leather strap was attached to either end of the case so that it could be worn on the wrist. A practice that was unheard of at the time, particularly for gentlemen’s timepieces. This unique design was born in response to a request from a friend, the pioneering Brazilian aviator, Alberto Santos-Dumont, who had lamented the lack of reliable timepieces in the cockpit. Little did either man know at the time that it would help revolutionise an entire industry. Today, the Santos remains the only Cartier watch to carry the original wearer’s name.

The above is just one example of Cartier’s myriad contributions to the advancement of the luxury watch industry. With a tradition stretching back over 160 years, the house has launched countless innovative watches, hallmarked by elegance, emotion and innovation. Renowned the world over for its beautifully shaped cases, the profile of a Cartier timepiece is instantly recognisable on the wrist.

This is not by chance of course, but rather attributable to “The Culture of Design”, an enduring methodologyconceived by Louis Cartier himself. And one which the Maison has employed to great effect throughout its history. It consists of four main principles: shape, line, details and proportions. Apparently simple concepts perhaps, yet ones which have consistently resulted in revolutionary designs.

Faithful to the spirit of its founders, Cartier watches combine bold aesthetics and extremely rigorous requirements in precision, skill and expertise. Each watch embodies the unique Cartier style, blending an insatiable desire to astound and total mastery of complicated techniques. The result: harmonious elegance and great refinement. Examples of which can be found in every Cartier collection, from the Tank and Santos, to the Ballon Bleu and Pasha De Cartier.

Cartier watches are available for purchase at our Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Canberra boutiques. As an approved watch service centre, we provide an after sales service for the lifetime of your Cartier watch.