The 'Must de Cartier' collection was a pivotal 1977 initiative created to democratize the brand's designs during the quartz crisis. These timepieces utilized vermeil cases and featured a wide array of imaginative dials, representing a deliberate and successful break from Cartier's more traditional aesthetic. The Must de Trinity's case shap is inspired by Cartier's Trinity ring and bracelet design.
Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier approaches horology with the perspective of a master jeweler, prioritizing form, proportion, and aesthetic purity. The Maison was a crucial pioneer of the modern wristwatch, creating the purpose-built Santos-Dumont in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont and later the iconic Tank in 1917, whose "brancards" seamlessly integrated the case and lugs into a singular design.
While historically collaborating with ebauche movement suppliers, Cartier has since invested significantly in its own manufacture capabilities in Switzerland, developing a suite of in-house calibres. The brand's enduring significance lies not in technical innovation, but in creating a portfolio of iconic case shapes that are foundational to watchmaking itself.
Overall Grade: 8 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Wear Production: est. 1990 Contents: Watch and Box Genre: Neo-Vintage Dress Watch
Size: 27mm Thickness: approx. 7mm Lug Width: approx. 15mm
Case: Gold plated sterling silver trinity case, mirrored finish, light wear Bezel: Gold plated sterling silver bezel, light wear Dial: Silver sunburst dial, printed roman numerals Hands: Blued sword hands
Crown: Functional and original pull-down cabochon crown, light wear Crystal: Mineral crystal, light signs of wear Bracelet: Leather strap, light wear Caseback: Solid gold-plated screw caseback, light signs of wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche