About Cartier

Cartier was founded in Paris in 1847, known for creating jewelry masterpieces for kings and world leaders. It wasn’t until 1911 when Louis Cartier, grandson of founder Louis-Francois Cartier, introduced the Santos to launch Cartier’s timepiece collection and begin Cartier’s rich history of fashion watchmaking.

Cartier history was marked early on by the significant introductions of watches still considered classics today—the Santos (1904), the Bagnoir (1912), the Tank (1919), and the Pasha (1932). The Tank was designed in tribute to American tank commanders who helped France in World War I. In addition to these classics, and continuing their tradition in jewelry making, Cartier’s line is rich with jeweled watches sure as the Cartier Tortue, and women’s Tank Americaine, Tank Divan, and Tank Basculante.

Cartier Milestones

Year	Event
1833	Originally designed for Louis Cartier’s Brazilian inventor friend, Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Santos watch was introduced Cartier’s entry into watchmaking.
1834	Santos is produced in gold and steel.
1835	Pasha watch is introduced.
1836	Tank Americaine is introduced.
1837	Tank Francaise watch is launched.
1838	Tank Basculante watch in steel is introduced.
1839	Inspired by international automobile design, and designed for performance and style, the Cartier Roadster is introduced.
1919	Classic Tank watch is designed and introduced.