When it comes to objects of desire, Cartier has a perennial appeal that few can rival.
In other words, if you’ve zeroed in on the legendary house for your year-end shopping, we’d dare say that anything you choose is a safe bet. Still, there’s far too many beautiful, spellbinding things from the maison that you can present in its signature red box — so we’re here to help ease the choice paralysis a little by spotlighting on Cartier’s biggest highlights of the year. No, they are not all jewellery and watches. But, yes, they’ll guarantee smiles for their originality and timeless elegance.
Pasha de Cartier watch with interchangeable steel bracelet and leather strap
Designed by Gerald Genta, the cult classic was created from a 1930s water-resistant watch created by Louis Cartier to accompany the Pasha of Marrakesh on his daily swims. The model features a non-conformist round case with a square rail track in the dial’s centre, Arabic numerals, Vendome-style bars with Clous de Paris at the ends, and screw-down cover over a crown fitted with a blue spinel. The dial flaunts a stamped guilloche motif and an ever-so-slight dégradé effect on its edges. Visible via a transparent caseback is the automatic calibre 1847 MC designed in the Cartier manufacture. Personalised engraving in the form of initials can be done at the back of the case or under the crown cover.
Clash de Cartier diamond ring in rose gold
The Clash de Cartier collection has been called many things: subversive; disruptive; a game changer in the maison’s aesthetic heritage. Bringing together the brand’s iconic studs, beads and clous carrés (or square nails) in a single ribbed mesh, this genderless diamond ring, like the rest of the pieces in the range, is an exercise in extreme dualities. Crafted in pink gold and set with 18 brilliant-cut diamonds, it’s sharp yet soft to the touch; geometrical yet fluid; mechanical yet free-moving. Stacking is recommended.
Must de Cartier saddle bag
The bag that established burgundy as the maison’s signature colour makes a return this gifting season. First launched in 1973, the cult Must Game bag embodied the freedom of the 80s with its minimalist androgynous sensibility inspired by the professional man’s wardrobe of the time. Taking design cues from the original, the new Must de Cartier saddle bag features the house’s signature burgundy calfskin and the same oversized logo embossed on the exterior, with adjustable shoulder straps and a magnetic flap that allows for easy access.
Panthère de Cartier solitaire game
Cartier’s history in art de vivre may not be widely-known, but is no less fascinating. From play to travel to the art of hospitality, the maison has, for over a century, been bringing style and savoir faire to the everyday through its selection of beautiful lifestyle objects. Part of Cartier’s latest series of luxury homewares, this Panthère de Cartier solitaire board in varnished corian features the emblematic panther, arguably Cartier’s most recognisable icon, flanked by abstract cypress trees. Beads are blown glass covered in gold leaf, and its base is lined in beige fabric.
Entrélaces de Cartier jewellery box
There’s no better place to house your prized Cartier luxuries than this two-tiered jewellery box. With its interior covered in plush, red fabric, the case’s motif of interlacing red ribbons is a homage to Louis Cartier’s signature, which he used as a seal to sign off in his notebooks.
Diabolo de Cartier wooden blocks
These whimsical wooden blocks are great for teaching your little ones essential skills, but when they are crafted from lacquered wood and printed with Cartier’s great emblems like the bellboy, panther and caged birds, they make a wonderful home decor gift for devotees of the house.
Diabolo de Cartier key ring
We can’t think of anyone who can resist this charming Diabolo de Cartier key ring with the maison’s iconic bellboy serving up a diamond on his tray. You’ll never misplace your keys again.
La Panthère Perfume
A sensual yet powerful chypre fragrance, La Panthère radiates the scent of velvety gardenia, which is warmed by apricot-coloured osmanthus in the middle and finishes with velvety notes of musk. The captivating feline-floral creation is encased in an equally mesmerising bottle, which features the panther’s faceted head sculpted from glass.
(All images: Cartier)