Calibre De Cartier Watches at Banks Lyon

Although Cartier produced one of the first wristwatches for men in the early 1900’s, it is not always the first brand that comes to mind when thinking of luxury mens watches, being more well known for jewelry and design in general. However, this is no reflection on the quality of the craftsmanship, with the watches sometimes getting less credit than they deserve from watch collectors.

Calibre de Cartier Watches

Two Cartier watches currently in stock at Banks Lyon are variations of the Calibre de Cartier watch, one in solid 18ct Pink Gold with an Alligator strap and one in Steel with 18ct Pink Gold accents and bracelet. The bracelet version is a newer edition, previously having an alligator strap it has been introduced due to consultation with customers.

The major difference between the two watches reviewed here is the materials used. The less expensive model compromises a steel case with 18 ct pink gold highlights, whereas the more costly has a solid 18ct pink gold case and alligator skin strap. Both are complimented with a sapphire crystal on the winding mechanism, silver and opaline dial and black transferred Roman numerals. They are both water resistant up to 30m / 100 feet, have a 42mm case size and come with Cartier presentation box.

The alligator strap version in Pink Gold is quite striking, with chocolate brown backing to the dial, complimenting the Pink Gold very nicely. It has a good weight and solid feel, suitable for a watch of such quality. The back of the watch has a glass cover, showing the mechanism inside, whilst protecting it from any knocks.

The model with the bracelet is equally well made, with a white back to the dial and Pink gold accents around the face, contrasting well with the steel design. Being slightly heavier due to the materials making up the bracelet, it gives an excellent option for those who prefer a bracelet style instead of a leather strap.

The Pink gold version is, of course, more expensive, but both are great items. It is ultimately your choice of item, regarding budget and aesthetics, and choosing an excellent watch is best made by sampling the models yourself. At Banks Lyon you can try items for yourself in a friendly and professional environment, having any questions answered by people who know their business well.

A brief history of Cartier watches

Louis-Francois Cartier inherited a jewelry workshop from his master Adophe Picard in 1847, forming the house of Cartier. Over the next 20 or so years, Cartier’s clients grew in number, including famous figures such as Princess Mathilde and Empress Eugenie, Regent of France.

In 1904 Cartier received its first appointment as the official purveyor to King Edward VII of the United Kingdom, King Alfonso XIII of Spain and King Carlos I of Portugal a year later.

By 1910, Cartier had shops in London, New York and Paris, expanding due to increased popularity and demand.

Cartier designed items for high profile people, including Duke Philippe of Orleans, Edward VIII, Jean Cocteau, Queen Marie-Antoinette and Grace Kelly amongst many others.

By the early seventies, Cartier had boutiques around the globe, from America to the Far East.

With many high profile collections being created and numerous special editions to celebrate Cartier’s rich heritage, the name has gone from strength to strength.

Earlier this year a short film was directed by Bruno Aveillan to commemorate 165 years of Cartier’s work, being premiered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in February 2012.

For more information on all of Cartier's models, you can check what Banks Lyon has in stock and look at Cartier's official website - www.cartier.co.uk.