Cartier is one of the most venerated and exciting names in the world of luxury watches and jewellery, and, considering their longevity, that is a truly impressive claim to make. Nevertheless, Cartier’s sumptuous designs are still just as stunning today as they were at the point of their inception; more than 160 years into the past. Cartier jewellery has been worn by some of the foremost individuals in high-class contemporary society, and Cartier watches are renowned for blending the qualities of horology and jewellery into a single form. But how exactly did this famous Parisian brand name begin?
The Beginning of Cartier
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Cartier began with Louis François Cartier himself. Louis François Cartier had already followed his family trade by becoming a goldsmith in the 19th century, and, after serving as the apprentice to Adolphe Picard for many years in the heart of Paris, he succeeded his former employer in 1847, forming the iconic company that we know now as ‘Cartier’. Expanding his provision and design of jewellery at an incredible rate, Louis Cartier became a favourite of many influential individuals – such as the cousin of Napoleon III, Princess Mathilde – and it was this valuable patronage which opened the door for Cartier to enter into Parisian society in a far greater way; a fortune which was to set the brand on the pathway to success.
A Multi-Generational Endeavour
Louis François handed over the reins of his company to his son Alfred in 1874, but the rise of Cartier’s global appeal was really to occur under the leadership of 
his three sons; Louis, Pierre and Jacques. Louis in particular (see right) proved to be both an exceptional craftsman and an adroit businessman, and when the decision was taken to move the Cartier premises to 13 Rue de La Paix – a premise which is still synonymous with the Cartier name to this day – it was plain that the future of this flourishing company was in good hands. From 1902, Cartier opened branches in localities as far afield as London and New York, and grew to be associated with the majority of the European monarchy; a relationship which led Edward VII to dub Cartier as ‘the jeweller of Kings’.
Louis Cartier and the ‘First Male Wristwatch’
Louis Cartier is an individual who has been credited by some as creating the pioneering male wristwatch. The timepiece in question was fashioned in 1904 for an early figure in the world of aviation – Alberto Santos-Dumont – who required a subtle watch that could be worn in action during flight. Until this point, pocket watches were the only accepted form of timepiece for use by a gentleman, and anything else was viewed as being the province of a lady. The resulting wristwatch was named ‘The Santos’, and, although it didn’t become available for public sale until 1911, this timepiece set the widespread acceptance of the wristwatch in motion, and provided the inspiration behind the Cartier Santos range that is still in production today.
Cartier Today
Although Cartier was eventually to pass out of family ownership in 1972, it never relinquished any of its commitment to excellence, and they have continued to uphold their reputation as the ‘jeweller of kings’ with each and every release. In particular, Cartier watches have forged ahead into the public eye, largely as a result of an eclectic portfolio of shapes and designs which renders them instantly recognisable. Combining quality materials and innovation with an unerring understanding of what makes a striking fashion statement, Cartier now commands a veritable empire of admirers, and Cartier watches are an integral part of the collection here at Banks Lyon Jewellers. If you’d like to find out more, please don’t hesitate to contact our professional team today. Our selection of Cartier products is among the most extensive that you’ll find, so call us now on 01524 38 48 58 or email [email protected] and we’ll be happy to discuss your preferences in more detail.
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