The Carree was the first Cartier watch serially produced in steel, defying its established identity as a precious-metal jeweler. Its "Carree" or square case, sharp 29mm proportions, and integrated bracelet defined 1980s neo-vintage aesthetics, directly answering the market shift initiated by other integrated steel sport designs.
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 | Good Condition, Visible Wear Production: est. 1980 Contents: Watch and Pouch Genre: Neo-Vintage Dress Watch
Size: approx. 24x35mm Thickness: approx. 10mm Lug Width: approx. 16mm
Case: Stainless steel Caree case, rounded edges, brushed finish, visible wear Bezel: Steel square screwed bezel, mirror finish, visible wear Dial: White 'spider' dial, printed roman numerals and tracks Hands: Sword-shaped, blued steel hands
Crown: Steel octagonal crown, set with blue spinel cabochon, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, light wear Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet, visible wear Caseback: Steel solid screw-down caseback, visible wear Movement: Automatic Caliber: Swiss Ebauche