Centuries have passed since the release of the very first wristwatch but one thing remains the same – the watchmaking industry is a goldmine of scrupulous craftsmanship and constant innovation.
And by no means are women’s watches any less comment-worthy and exquisitely-built than men’s. Not that they have ever been, anyway.
If you’re a female targeting the very best watch brands, there aren’t many that can outdo Cartier. Not only is a Cartier watch likely to deliver decades of hassle-free use but it also serves as an excellent heirloom, a timepiece that can keep ticking for generations to come.
With the brand’s beginnings dating back to as early as 1847, Cartier is one of the oldest hands in the whole industry. Over the period spanning three centuries, the company has established itself as one of the go-to destinations for luxury timepieces among women.
When it comes to women’s luxury watches, only the Rolex Datejust line is more popular.
Over the next few years, that is likely to change because – unlike Rolex who isn’t really known for a large collection of female watches – the Parisian brand offers hundreds of beautiful feminine designs. In this article, I will help you pick the best Cartier watch for ladies in 2021.
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Best Cartier Watch for Ladies (Top 5 Overview)
| Product | Collection | Model | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top
Top
Top | Tank Solo | W5200004 | Leather Choice | Check Price |
Top
Top | Tank Francaise | WE1002S3 | Diamond Choice | Check Price |
Top | Panthere | WGPN0009 | Yellow Gold Choice | Check Price |
Top | Panthere | WGPN0007 | Rose Gold Choice | Check Price |
Top
Top | Ballon Bleu | W69010Z4 | Stainless Steel Choice | Check Price |
Best Cartier Watch for Ladies (Top 5 Reviewed)
Cartier Tank Solo W5200004
If you’re on the same page as me and think that there’s nothing more elegant than a genuine leather strap on your wrist, the Cartier Tank Solo collection is guaranteed to grab your attention.
Tank Solo is one of the most iconic and best-selling lines Cartier has released to date. Considering the brand’s incredibly lengthy history, that alone says a lot about these watches.
The collection was launched in 1917 by the legendary Louis Cartier whose design of the Tank line set new trends not only for Cartier timepieces but the whole industry. By launching Tank Solo, Louis made a huge contribution to the so-called modern style, later known as Art Deco. The biggest visible difference between the Tank Solo line and its predecessors was the rounded tops of the lugs.
As things stand, Tank Solo watches by Cartier are one of the most popular rectangular-shaped timekeepers worldwide. Famous people seen wearing timepieces from this line include Michelle Obama, Angelina Jolie, or the late Princess Diana.
The W5200004 model I picked here comes with an 18kt yellow gold case measuring just south of 35mm in diameter. The crown set is too made from the same quality of gold and includes a blue cabochon. The caseback is solid.
The strap is made from alligator leather and uses a tang buckle closure. Protecting the face from damage is ultra scratch-resistant, anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass.
The white dial features two navy blue hands pointing to pitch-black Roman numerals.
The watch is powered by in-house, Swiss-made quartz movement in the form of Cartier Caliber 690. The two-hand, 8-jewel movement has excellent longevity and provides an accuracy of +/- 15 seconds/month.
Finally, the model is water-resistant up to 3ATM / 30m. A fairly standard rating for a dress watch.
Tank Solo is also available in a stainless steel version.
Key Takeaways
- Excellent Entry-Level Cartier watch
- 18kt yellow gold case
- Alligator leather strap
- Scratch-resistant sapphire glass
- Swiss quartz movement
- Water-resistant (30m)
Tank Francaise WE1002S3
There’s nothing wrong with “shining bright like a diamond”. If you haven’t set any caps on your budget yet, don’t! You might just get one of the most spectacular, diamond-plated watches on the planet.
The WE1002S3 model belongs to the Tank Française collection. Launched in 1996, it’s the newest addition to the family of Cartier Tank watches. Previous variations of this excellent line are the Tank Louis and the Tank Americaine, introduced in 1922 and 1989, respectively.
The biggest trademark of the Française edition is the chain-link bracelet and the curved case graciously put at the center of the band to imitate its lines.
The model included here is the most diamond-decorated Tank Francaise watch available, with as many as 24 diamonds decorating the 18kt white gold bezel. No wonder it’s been spotted on the wrists of such world-renowned figures like Hilary Clinton or, again, Mrs. Obama.
The case is considerably smaller than in the Tank Solo model above, measuring just 25mm in diameter. It’s made from the same standard of gold as the bezel. Naturally, the identical type of material applies to the chain-link bracelet which comes with the most inconspicuous of closures, the hidden deployment clasp.
The model has a solid caseback and an octagonal crown set with a single diamond. Just like any other Cartier timepiece, the watch uses the highest quality glass material – sapphire crystal.
Akin to the majority of Tank models, its face features a classic design of white background and black Roman numerals. It also has the characteristic sword-shaped blued steel hands.
Tank Française WE1002S3 is run on ultra-precise and durable Swiss quartz movement, Caliber 057.
On the waterproofing front, the model can withstand depths of up to 3 ATM / 30m which effectively makes it splashproof.
Key Features
- 24 diamonds decorate the bezel
- White gold case and bracelet
- Sapphire crystal dial
- Diamond-decorated crown
- Swiss quartz movement
- Water-resistant up to 30m
Panthère WGPN0009
The Panthère line was launched in 1983 and to this date is seen as the “ultimate collection of the fun-loving 1980s”.
Quite frankly, Panthère timepieces initiated the concept of a jewelry watch. The line has played a huge part in the rich history of Maison’s watchmaking and is considered one of the most exquisite pieces of the late 20th century. Combining the best Swiss know-how and complex movements with the Parisian refinement, its success is hardly surprising.
Panthère watches were an integral part of the joyful 1980s, particularly when it comes to the art scene. The line is seen as an emblem of a bold era that still feels relevant these days.
Taking its name from the bracelet, the Panthère collection is rich in super-flexible watches that mirror the movement of the Maison style. According to many horologists, it’s the most distinctive Cartier design produced to date.
The line was redesigned in 2017 but the core values have remained the same – liberation, joy, and femininity.
The WGPN0009 model I selected here is the collection’s most exquisite yellow-gold timepiece.
The watch comes with an 18kt yellow gold case and the hidden fold-over clasp bracelet is made from the same material. The case measures 27mm in diameter and has a solid caseback. The crown is set with a blue sapphire.
Panthère WGPN0009 features a silver analog dial with blue hands pointing to Roman numeral hour markers. Unsurprisingly, the dial window is made from highly durable sapphire crystal glass.
Similar to the previous two models, it’s powered by a Swiss-made quartz movement and is water-resistant up to 30m.
Key Features
- 18kt yellow gold case and bracelet
- Crown decorated with blue sapphire
- Sapphire crystal dial window
- Battery-powered Swiss movement
- Water-resistant (3 ATM / 30m)
Panthère WGPN0007
If you prefer pink over yellow gold, trust the Panthère collection to deliver again.
The WGPN0007 model is the rose-gold embodiment of the previous Panthère timepiece on the list. Frankly, apart from some minor tweaks, it’s nearly identical.
Both the case and the bracelet are made from 18kt pink gold, just like the fixed bezel. The case size is identical to the yellow gold model, measuring 27mm. It has a solid caseback. Akin to the model above, the bracelet also uses a hidden fold-over closure. The watch is equipped with a push/pull crown with a blue spinel cabochon.
Both Panthère timepieces have indistinguishable analog dials, featuring a silver background with black Roman numeral indexes and blued-steel sword-shaped hands. There are also minute markers around the inner ring. The dial window is made from sapphire crystal glass.
Powered by a top-end Swiss quartz movement, the watch provides excellent precision. With the 3 ATM / 30m water-resistance rating, it’s also splashproof.
Key Features
- 18kt pink gold case and bracelet
- Crown with a blue spinel cabochon
- Sapphire crystal dial window
- Battery-powered Swiss movement
- Water-resistant (3 ATM / 30m)
Ballon Bleu W69010Z4
We round off the list of best Cartier watches for ladies with my favorite stainless steel model – Ballon Bleu WG9010Z4.
The clearest distinction between Ballon Bleu and other collections is the round-shaped case. In fact, all watch models from the line come with ring-shaped cases. As Cartier itself describes the collection, it’s rich in timepieces “constantly seeking harmony with a circle inside a circle”.
With its doubly convex design, it’s probably the most unique-looking and modern Cartier line available at present. It was launched in 2007.
Probably the most distinctive signature of the collection is the crown integrated under a metal hoop at 3 o’clock. All models have it.
Ballon Bleu W69010Z4 was picked from 79 models in the collection due to its Entry-Level price. The model is one of the least expensive available, with some other releases valued even as high as > $100,000.
The watch comes with a stainless steel case with a diameter of 29mm. The bracelet is made from the same material and uses a deployment clasp closure. Similar to all previous models, it has a solid caseback. The fluted crown is set with a cabochon.
W69010Z4 boasts a silver-themed dial with navy blue hands and black Roman numeral hour markers. The centrally-located inner ring includes minute markers. Protecting the dial from damage is again the anti-reflective sapphire glass.
Unsurprisingly, the watch uses Swiss quartz movement. The water-resistance capabilities are on the exact same level as all the models above – 30m.
Key Features
- Round stainless steel case
- Stainless steel bracelet
- Uniquely-designed crown
- Sapphire crystal glass
- Swiss-made quartz movement
- 30m water-resistance
Picking the Best Cartier Women’s Watch: Buying Guide
I’m positive that the list of the 5 best Cartier watches for ladies has provided you with a big enough choice. Don’t limit yourself to just one model if you don’t want to, you know…
Anyway, if the unthinkable has happened and neither of them caters to your taste, don’t worry.
Assuming you’re still on the lookout for the right model for your wrist, below find detailed answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Cartier. These should make the task of finding your perfect Cartier timepiece much easier.
Without further ado, let’s go.
P.S. If you have picked one of the models from the list, make sure to let me know which one and why in the comment section at the bottom of the page. Thanks!
What is the least expensive Cartier watch?
With some Cartier watches listed for a quarter of a million (yes, $250,000), it’s not uncommon for folks to wonder what is the cheapest Cartier watch.
As things stand, taking into consideration only the women’s line, the cheapest Cartier watch belongs to the Tank Solo collection. The model in question is one of my favorite Entry-Level luxury timepieces, Tank Solo WSTA0030. Currently, it’s listed for anywhere between $2,480-$3000 – depending on where you do your online shopping.
Is Cartier better than Rolex?
Have you ever heard about comparison being a thief of joy?
Both Cartier and Rolex are world-renowned watch moguls that produce excellent luxury timepieces that only a few others can compete with. Nevertheless, there are more than few notable differences between the two.
The most obvious is the type of movement each brand prefers to use.
If you value precision above everything else, you will appreciate the fact that the vast majority of Cartier watches are battery-powered. In other words, they use quartz movements. All of these are Swiss-made and come with a Swiss-like precision of -/+ 10 seconds/month to -/+ 15 seconds/month precision, depending on the caliber.
Rolex is the complete opposite. Currently, it’s impossible to buy any Rolex quartz watch. The era of Rolex quartz watches was short-lived, lasting for just over three decades and coming to a halt in 2001. Rolex Datejust Oysterquartz, the brand’s iconic battery-powered model, still appears in some important auction houses’ catalogs and is highly valued amongst collectors due to its “extinction” status.
If you’re a woman, going for Cartier will provide you with a lot (and I mean, a lot!) more watches to pick from. Although the Rolex ladies’ line is constantly growing, it doesn’t provide anywhere as big a choice as Cartier.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a brand that provides excellent resale value, Rolex is probably the better choice. And it should be, considering that on average these watches are significantly more expensive.
Summing up, Cartier and Rolex are excellent watchmakers that can compete with anyone. Both are superb choices for a ladies’ watch – but for different reasons. Whichever brand is the better fit for your needs – you know best.
How much does a Cartier watch cost?
Being a top-end luxury brand, you can’t expect to get a Cartier watch on the cheap.
Nevertheless, there’s a huge gap in expenditure between certain models. For example, the cheapest Cartier watch, Tank Solo WSTA0030, will set you back ~$2500 whereas there are some timepieces that will require you to dig really dip into your pocket. The most expensive watch, the 128-diamond Panthère HPI01383, sits at a mere $250,000.
Where is the best place to buy a Cartier watch?
These timepieces aren’t G-Shocks (no disrespect intended, Casio). Cartier watches require massive investment and you shouldn’t take any chances when picking the place to buy one.
Because of its luxury status, the brand is a popular choice amongst manufacturers of counterfeits. Whereas spotting a fake model is doable in real-life, shopping online doesn’t give you the same certainty. That’s why it’s essential to use only the most trusted destinations.
And these are…
- Cartier’s official website – naturally the safest place to do your shopping. The drawback is the lack of promotional deals. The free delivery on all orders is a nice touch, though!
- Amazon – the world’s biggest marketplace, used by billions every month. It’s full of legitimate Cartier watches oftentimes priced at way less than the same models in the official store. It offers a 30-day no-questions-asked return period. To stay on the safe side, pick highly-rated sellers.
- Jomashop – is probably the biggest online jewelry & watch store. It offers hundreds of Cartier watch models, oftentimes at really competitive prices. On top of the warranty issued by Cartier, the store offers its own 24-month guarantee period.
At all costs, avoid platforms similar to Wish which are full of fake goods, with watches one of the leaders of the shameful pack.
Also, don’t forget that it’s still possible to do your shopping offline. You can use the Store Locator to find the nearest Cartier boutique.
What is the best Cartier watch for investment?
It’s hard to point to just one best Cartier watch to invest in. Quite frankly, all of them are.
Cartier watches are considered a luxury for a reason. Although not providing as high resale value as the #1 Rolex, they are still high on the list of investors and collectors.
Nevertheless, if selling the watch for a profit in a few years’ time is at the back of your head, you should pick a watch that you will happily wear for all those years – all while waiting for the interest to spike on the market.
Probably your safest bets would be any of the best-selling collections, like Tank, Panthere or Calibre de Cartier. The luxury watch marketplace, Chrono24, might be a good benchmark in terms of resale trends.
What is the most popular Cartier watch?
By far, taking into consideration the number of sales and the presence on the market, the most popular watch collection is Tank Solo. The line was launched as early as 1917 and to this day is the most common choice, especially among women.
It’s difficult to say precisely which Cartier watch is most popular but you can pick any of the 11 models from the Solo line and they are bound to be one of the chartbusters.
What is the best Cartier watch lookalike?
Someone once said that one’s success can be measured by how many try to copy you.
Because of Cartier’s status as one of the most desired watch brands amongst females, many watchmakers constantly try to replicate the style of the French brand. And offer the “same”-looking watch at fraction of the cost (read also: 9 Watches That Look Like Cartier Tank).
Whereas I advise against trying to find a cheap substitute or, God forbid, a replica, it’s hard not to admire the efforts of some of the brands. For similar-styled watch models, you can look up: Seiko, Peugeot and Citizen.
