Cartier Panthère de Cartier (Small or Medium Model)
Dress Watch / Jewelry Watch · Cartier (Richemont Group). Tier: Luxury / Haute Joaillerie. Known as the 'Jeweler of Kings'.
Period: Neo-Vintage / Contemporary Classic (1983-present). Signature indicators include the square case, rounded corners, and visible bezel screws.
Type
Dress Watch / Jewelry Watch
Brand
Cartier (Richemont Group). Tier: Luxury / Haute Joaillerie. Known as the 'Jeweler of Kings'.
Movement
High-autonomy Quartz Movement. Estimated 6-8 year battery life. Caliber Cartier 157 (small) or similar.
Dimensions
Small: 22mm x 30mm; Medium: 27mm x 37mm. Lug width 12-15mm. Ultra-thin profile approx 6mm.
Description
The Cartier Panthère is a quintessential jewelry-first timepiece. Defined by its flexible, liquid-like bracelet and iconic square case, it serves as a statement of elegance rather than a tool. Its presence on the wrist is often compared to a fine bracelet that happens to tell time.
Key Features
Blue spinel cabochon crown, Maillon bracelet links, exposed bezel screws, and the 'Cartier' signature hidden within the X or VII numeral.
Dial Description
Silvered white or off-white matte dial; Roman numeral indices; chemin de fer minute track; blued-steel sword-shaped hands.
Case Material
Stainless Steel, 18k Yellow Gold, or Two-Tone (Yellow Gold and Steel). High-polish finish on all surfaces.
Crystal Type
Flat, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Flush set with the bezel.
Bezel Details
Fixed square bezel with rounded corners, secured by eight functional miniature screws. High-polish finish.
Crown & Pushers
Octagonal crown set with a synthetic blue spinel cabochon (or blue sapphire for gold models). No crown guards.
Bracelet or Strap
Maillon Panthère bracelet; five interlocking links with a brick-lay pattern. Hidden folding deployment clasp.
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel or gold back, secured by four screws. Engraved with Cartier logo, 'Swiss Made', and serial numbers.
Movement Type
High-autonomy Quartz Movement. Estimated 6-8 year battery life. Caliber Cartier 157 (small) or similar.
Water Resistance
3 bar / 30 meters. Suitable for light splashes only. Not recommended for swimming or bathing due to the luxury gaskets.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made. Manufactured in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
Age Estimate
Likely modern production (2017-present) based on the resurgence of this specific bracelet style in influencer culture.
Cultural Significance
One of the most recognizable women's watches in history, symbolizing the glamour of the 80s 'it-girl'. It bridges the gap between horology and high fashion.
Condition Notes
Appears in Excellent condition with high luster on the bracelet and case. No visible scratches on the crystal.
Value Estimate
MSRP $3,300 - $8,500 (Steel to Gold). Secondary market: $2,800 - $6,000 depending on metal and size.
Care & Maintenance
Battery replacement every 6-8 years. Bracelet cleaning with a soft brush to prevent 'gunk' buildup between the many links. Periodic water resistance checks.
Similar Watches
Cartier Santos-Dumont (flatter, more masculine), Cartier Tank Française (integrated bracelet but rectangular), Hermes Heure H (letter-shaped case).
Interesting Facts
Originally launched in 1983, it was discontinued in 2004 before a massive re-launch in 2017 due to vintage demand. It was a favorite of 1980s icons like Keith Richards and Pierce Brosnan.