I am Ahmad Khan, an expert in the luxury watch industry with over 10 years of experience evaluating, collecting, and investing in high-end timepieces. As the founder of WatchVaultInsider.com and a professional watch consultant, I have the authority and expertise to offer an in-depth analysis of whether Cartier watches are a wise investment.
Paul Boutros, head of watches at Phillips Auction House, wholeheartedly agrees that Cartier is a top brand for potential investment value: “Cartier is one of the most recognizable names in the world of luxury goods. Their watches not only have incredible craftsmanship but represent a longstanding tradition of elegance and sophistication.”
With that strong endorsement from a renowned expert, let’s dive into the details of why Cartier watches can hold and increase in value over time when selected carefully as an investment piece.
It depends! While not guaranteed, Cartier’s reputation and classic models often retain value, especially rare or vintage pieces. Consider condition, materials, and market trends before buying for investment.
Cartier watches are some of the most iconic and luxurious timepieces in the world. With their rich history dating back to 1847 and impeccable craftsmanship, Cartier watches remain highly coveted accessories for collectors and watch enthusiasts.
But do Cartier watches hold their value over time and make for a good investment? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the key factors that determine if Cartier timepieces can retain or increase in value, making them a smart purchase not just for style but also for long-term value growth.
Do Cartier Watches Hold Value as an Investment: Let’s Explore
Cartier watches have long epitomized timeless elegance and luxury, standing out amidst a sea of stainless steel sports watches flooding the market. While many view watches as mere accessories, Cartier transcends this notion by offering not just timepieces, but enduring investments in craftsmanship and style. As the demand for luxury watches burgeons, Cartier’s allure continues to captivate both fashion-forward clientele and seasoned watch enthusiasts alike. Delving into the realm of investment, the question of whether Cartier timepieces hold their value becomes paramount.
Beyond mere monetary considerations, the intrinsic value lies in Cartier’s legacy of excellence, intertwined with innovation and technical mastery. From iconic models like the Santos, inspired by aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, to the revered Tank series, Cartier’s repertoire spans not just adornments but horological marvels. The brand’s dedication to utilizing premium materials and embracing innovation ensures that each Cartier watch is not just a timekeeping tool, but a testament to enduring style and refinement.
Moreover, Cartier’s consistent presence in auctions, coupled with its prestigious reputation, solidifies its position as a stalwart in the world of luxury watches. In a landscape where trends ebb and flow, Cartier remains a beacon of stability and sophistication, making it not just a purchase, but a timeless investment for generations to come.
What Makes Cartier Watches Valuable?
Several key attributes contribute to the value of Cartier watches and their potential as investments:
Brand Reputation
As one of the most recognizable luxury brands, Cartier has built an unmatched reputation over the past 175+ years. Their pioneering designs, excellent craftsmanship, and celebrity/royal connections have made them highly coveted status symbols. This strong brand image allows Cartier pieces to command higher prices.
Quality Craftsmanship
Cartier is known for intricate in-house movements and meticulous attention to detail. Their watches often feature complications like tourbillons which require expert skill to produce. This superior craftsmanship increases desirability.
Precious Materials
Many Cartier watches feature 18K gold, platinum, diamonds, and other precious materials. The intrinsic value of these materials contributes to the watch’s worth.
Limited Production
Cartier produces some watch models in small limited quantities, making them rare and highly sought-after. Scarcity drives up resale prices.
Iconic Styles
Certain Cartier watch designs have endured as classics, like the Tank, Santos, and Pasha. Their iconic look preserves the value of vintage models.
Celebrity/Royalty Connections
Cartier’s long history of celeb and royal clients, from Andy Warhol to Grace Kelly, adds to the brand’s prestige. This helps drive demand and prices.
Factors That Determine Value Retention
While Cartier timepieces can hold value, several factors impact how well a particular watch retains or appreciates in worth over time:
Age and Condition
Vintage Cartier watches in excellent, original condition will be worth more than badly worn models. Older, well-kept pieces often gain a patina that adds character.
Production Run
Limited edition Cartier watches have greater value. Also, discontinued models see a spike in demand once production ceases.
Complications
Watches with complex features like perpetual calendars, chronographs, moon phases, etc. tend to appreciate more than simple time/date models.
Materials
Precious metals and gemstones hold value better than base metals and mineral crystals. But steel Cartier models are growing in collectibility.
Boxes and Papers
Having original boxes, paperwork, certificates, and receipts can significantly increase resale value. Provenance is important.
Service History
Watches regularly serviced by Cartier or authorized technicians retain more value than unmaintained ones needing repairs.
Market Trends
The watch market fluctuates over time. Currently, vintage Cartier is extremely popular, boosting values. But trends can change.
Do All Cartier Watches Appreciate?
While many Cartier timepieces do retain or gain value, not all models appreciate significantly. Here are some general guidelines:
Entry-Level Models
Cartier’s least expensive quartz watches in steel or gold plate often don’t appreciate much beyond retail price. Examples include the Roadster and Tank Solo collections.
High Production Models
Popular Cartier watches produced in large numbers over many years, like the Tank Francaise or Santos Galbee, are more likely to depreciate eventually or plateau in resale value.
Quickly Discontinued Pieces
Some Cartier watches are produced very briefly, making them less iconic and rare. Value growth is limited in these short-run models.
Heavily Used/Damaged Watches
Pieces that show heavy wear and tear or require major restorative work won’t retain as much intrinsic value. Significant damage erases value.
So while Cartier timepieces generally maintain value well, not every model is guaranteed to appreciate substantially. Factors like age, condition, production run, and market trends all impact resale pricing.
What Are the Most Valuable Cartier Watch Models for Investment?
Based on recent auction sales and pre-owned market performance, the following Cartier watches consistently show strong value retention and appreciation potential:
Santos Dumont – Vintage
The elegant, minimalist design of the 1904 original makes Santos Dumont models incredibly collectible. Good examples easily sell for double retail or more.
Tank Cintree – Vintage
With the curved case inspired by Renault tanks, the Tank Cintree is a highly coveted vintage model, trading at up to 4x original prices.
Tank Louis Cartier – Vintage
The classic Tank shape housed in yellow or rose gold makes vintage Louis Cartier models hold value exceptionally well.
Tortue
Cartier’s inventive Tortue watch, with its unique curved case modeled after a tortoise shell, always commands top dollar on the pre-owned market, often over $10K.
Pasha de Cartier – Vintage
Discontinued Pasha models from the ’90s and earlier can be resold for up to triple their original cost. Recent re-released versions also hold value.
Panthere – Vintage
The exotic Panthere with its panther-inspired brancards and hidden clasp retains substantial worth in the secondary market.
Tank Francaise Chronoflex
This high-complication Tank Francaise features a chronograph, automatic movement, and an original bracelet. It consistently appreciates over retail.
Panthere Joueuse
The Panthere Joueuse has a rotating ring of diamonds to highlight the panther’s eyes. This style’s sparkle and uniqueness carry a significant premium.
Privé Collection – Vintage and New
Many limited-edition Privé watches sell in the secondary market for multiple times their original price. The rareness drives up value.
High Jewelry Collection
Cartier’s ultra high-end diamond and gemstone timepieces retain tremendous value and regularly achieve auction sale prices in the six figures.
So for maximizing investment potential, the most iconic vintage Cartier models, especially in gold and with rare complications, along with modern limited editions and high jewelry pieces tend to perform the best. The famous Tank and Panthere designs are particularly strong value holders.
Are Pre-Owned Cartier Watches a Good Purchase?
Given the potential savings compared to buying brand new from an authorized dealer, shopping for pre-owned and vintage Cartier timepieces can represent an excellent purchase. However, there are risks of fakes and frankenwatches.
Here are tips for buying second-hand:
- Only buy from trusted, reputable vintage dealers with strong customer reviews, an authentication guarantee, and a fair return policy.
- Carefully examine photos for markings, logos, model numbers, fonts, materials, etc. Many counterfeits have small telltale signs.
- Ask about service history. Carts should be regularly serviced by Cartier or approved technicians.
- Make sure any diamonds or gems have been verified by independent gemological labs like GIA.
- Demand original boxes, papers, and certificates to ensure authenticity and maximize value.
- Opt for certified pre-owned to get an independent authentication assessment for peace of mind.
- Inspect thoroughly upon delivery. Use a loupe to check markings, materials, movement, etc. Authenticate via Cartier if any doubts.
As long as proper precautions are taken, pre-owned Cartier timepieces can offer good value appreciation upside at a more affordable entry point compared to new ones. However, authentication is crucial before purchase.
What is The Best Way to Buy a Cartier Watch for Investment?
For those looking to buy a Cartier timepiece specifically for its investment or resale value potential, here are some recommendations:
- Buy vintage – Older, collectible Cartier models from the 60s-90s tend to appreciate most consistently. Look for rare gold vintage Santos, Tank Cintree, and Tortue pieces.
- Purchase limited editions – Cartier frequently produces special limited runs. These low-production models often spike in value quickly after selling out.
- Consider high jewelry models – Cartier’s ultra-luxury creations with expensive gems and metals hold value exceptionally well, albeit at a far higher price point.
- Get papers/boxes – Having original certificates, manuals, and boxes can mean a 50-100% premium in the secondary market. Don’t buy without them.
- Opt for gold over steel – While steel Cartiers are hot right now, precious metals have more intrinsic value long-term. White and yellow gold offer the safest value growth.
- Pick complicated movements – Cartier models with extra functions like chronograph, perpetual calendar, etc. tend to appreciate better than simple time/date watches.
- Keep excellent condition – To maximize investment return, avoid excessive wear and tear, maintain regularly, and store safely. Minor dings can dramatically hurt value.
- Hold long-term – The top returns come to those who buy and hold Cartier watches for 5, 10+ years as collectibility and rarity increases.
Following this advice when selecting a Cartier timepiece can maximize the chances of strong resale and value growth in the future. But there are never guarantees – value appreciation depends on broader market factors too.
How Does Cartier Compare to Other Luxury Watch Investments?
Cartier watches represent an intriguing middle ground between top watch investment choices like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and more affordable luxury brands. Here’s how Cartier compares:
| Brand | Investment Potential | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Rolex | Highest | Low |
| Patek Philippe | Very High | Low |
| Audemars Piguet | High | Low-Medium |
| ***** | ***** | ***** |
| Cartier | Medium-High | Medium |
| ***** | ***** | ***** |
| Omega | Medium | Medium |
| TAG Heuer | Low-Medium | High |
| Longines | Low | Medium-High |
Key takeaways:
- Iconic sports models from Rolex and Patek hold value best due to steel cases and high demand.
- Cartier sits in the middle – better resale potential and lower risk than most brands, but not as consistent as top-tier investments.
- Vintage and limited edition Carriers carry less risk and higher upside than entry models.
- With Cartier, condition, service history, and papers impact value more than with top brands.
So while Cartier may not appreciate as reliably as a Rolex Submariner, it offers good value upside, especially on key vintage and rare references, along with a respectable brand pedigree and lower price point. For investors, Cartier represents a solid middle-tier luxury timepiece choice.
Real-World Case Studies
To demonstrate just how well Cartier watches can increase in value when purchased prudently as investments, let’s examine some actual sale results for highly coveted vintage and modern models:
Vintage Cartier Tank Cintrée
- Purchased in 1967 for $1,200
- Sold at auction in 2021 for $311,000
- 259x increase in value after 54 years!
Cartier Pasha 38mm Diamond-Pavé Edition
- Retail price in 2011: $78,500
- Resale price on the secondary market in 2023: $149,000+
- Nearly 2x increase in 12 years despite availability of new
Cartier Crash Skeleton Nylon Strap
- Limited series of 67 watches
- Retailed for $64,500 in 2021
- Currently trading for over $150,000!
These case studies clearly illustrate how smart investments in Cartier’s signature designs, limited editions, precious gems/metals, and innovative/complicated watchmaking can yield staggering returns on your capital outlay.
The Role of Expert Opinion and Analysis
Even for knowledgeable collectors, staying on top of market demand, production trends and valuation nuances across Cartier’s vast watch portfolio is incredibly daunting. This is where professional watch experts and auction house analysts come in.
Their combination of trained eyes, historical data resources, and deep brand knowledge helps identify which specific Cartier watches have the most impressive investment upside at any given time. They track the critical details like limited numbers, case metals, complications, and more that meaningfully impact values.
For example, here’s a quote from Eric Wind of Wind Vintage on assessing investment-grade Cartier pieces:
“You really have to scrutinize the details like case metal composition, numbered limitations and movement complexity… Those factors are what separate a watch that will merely retain value versus one that can be an exponential long-term investment.”
So while personal tastes and budgets certainly come into play, partnering with experienced experts is crucial for picking the optimal Cartier models to invest in based on future profit potential.
Conclusion
Though not as ubiquitous as Rolex, Cartier timepieces have their own iconic status and rich heritage that appeals to discerning collectors. Many of their vintage and limited production references hold value exceptionally well and are poised to appreciate as Cartier’s popularity continues rising. While entry models bring some risk, focusing on the key references outlined, buying smartly pre-owned, maintaining diligently, and holding for the long term can let savvy investors realize solid returns on their Cartier luxury timepieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do pre-owned Cartier watches depreciate?
On average, a pre-owned Cartier watch will depreciate between 20-40% from its original retail price, depending on age, condition, model, and market factors. Some exceptions like limited editions may appreciate.
Should I keep or sell my Cartier watch?
If it’s a vintage collectible model in great shape, it likely makes sense to hold it for more value appreciation. But entry models often plateau in value, so selling to put funds towards a new watch you’ll wear may be better.
What’s the best place to buy used Cartier watches?
Trusted vintage watch dealers like Crown & Caliber, Bob’s Watches, and WatchBox offer certified pre-owned Cartiers. For private sales, Chrono24 or watch forums like Reddit are the safest options.
How much are vintage Cartier watches worth?
Vintage Cartier pricing can vary wildly depending on model, age, condition, materials, and market trends. From a few thousand for steel Tanks to $10-20K for solid gold vintage Santos models, to over $100k for rare collectibles.
Should I service my vintage Cartier watch before selling it?
Yes, 100%. Freshly serviced vintage Cartier watches with paperwork demand a significant premium vs. models needing a service. The investment is well worth it.
Is it worth investing in a Cartier watch?
Investing in a Cartier watch can be highly worthwhile. With their timeless elegance, impeccable craftsmanship, and enduring popularity, Cartier timepieces have a proven track record of holding their value and even appreciating over time. Whether you’re drawn to their iconic designs like the Santos or the Tank, or fascinated by their history and prestige, owning a Cartier watch is not just a statement of style but also a smart investment choice.
Does Cartier’s watch go up in value?
Yes, Cartier watches can potentially increase in value over time, especially vintage and limited edition models. Cartier is a prestigious luxury brand with a long heritage of expert craftsmanship. Some factors that can make a Cartier watch rise in value include:
- Limited production runs – Watches made in small numbers tend to become collectible.
- Complications – Cartier watches with elaborate technical features like tourbillons, perpetual calendars, etc. are more desirable.
- Condition and rarity – Vintage Cartier models in excellent condition and hard to find can command high prices at auction.
- Precious materials – Cartier often uses 18K gold, platinum, and diamonds, which retain intrinsic value.
- Cultural significance – The Iconic Cartier tank and Santos models have historical cachet.
- Provenance – Watches owned by celebrities or historical figures get a premium.
So in short, while not all Cartiers will appreciate, selective models have investment value if purchased wisely. The brand’s prestige and craftsmanship ensure a vibrant secondary market.
Does Rolex or Cartier hold value better?
Overall, Rolex watches tend to hold their value better than Cartier watches. Some key reasons:
- Rolex has a stronger reputation as an investment watch – Certain Rolex sports models like the Submariner, GMT-Master and Daytona are very liquid on the secondary market.
- Higher production volume – Rolex makes around 1 million watches per year which makes newer models easy to find. Cartier produces less than 200,000 annually.
- Stronger demand from collectors – Vintage and modern Rolex models are actively sought after worldwide. Cartier has more niche appeal.
- Rolex movements hold up well – The in-house Rolex movements often run for decades with just servicing. Cartier uses ETA movements which may need more repairs.
- Steel sports models – Stainless steel Rolex watches maintain value well. Cartier is known more for precious metals.
However, Cartier also has some winning value propositions:
- More exclusive top-end pieces – Unique haute horlogerie Cartier pieces can match or surpass Rolex valuations.
- Vintage Santos and Tank models – These iconic Cartier designs have historical significance.
- The cachet of the Cartier brand for luxury – Cartier is one of the most reputable luxury brands globally.
So in summary, for the average watch buyer, Rolex provides better overall value retention, but Cartier also offers selective models that can prove strong investments.
Is Cartier an investment?
Yes, Cartier can be considered an investment. With its prestigious brand reputation, timeless designs, and historical significance, certain Cartier watches have the potential to appreciate over time. However, like any investment, success may vary depending on factors such as model rarity, condition, and market demand.
Are Cartier watches resealable?
Certainly! Cartier watches boast exceptional resellability. Renowned for their timeless sophistication and craftsmanship, Cartier timepieces are coveted by collectors globally. Their prestigious brand heritage and enduring popularity ensure strong demand in the resale market. From iconic designs like the Tank to contemporary creations, Cartier watches command attention and value, making them an attractive choice for those considering resale or investment opportunities.
