A Timeless Encounter with Cartier

Last week, our team had the pleasure of visiting the Cartier Exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London — a truly unforgettable experience. From archival tiaras to groundbreaking watches, the exhibition was a masterclass in artistry, heritage, and cultural impact.

More than just a luxury brand, Cartier has consistently blended elegance with innovation — and seeing it all in one place brought that legacy to life.

A Royal Legacy: Maison Cartier’s Rise

Founded in 1847 in Paris by Louis-François Cartier, the Maison quickly earned global recognition for its technical skill and elegant designs.

Royal endorsement played a crucial role in its rise. King Edward VII awarded Cartier a Royal Warrant in 1902, famously calling it “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers.” By the 1930s, Cartier was supplying jewellery to more than 15 royal courts around the world.

 Diamond tiara commissioned by British royalty, Cartier 1902

The Return of the Cartier Tank

Originally launched in 1917 and inspired by the silhouette of WWI military tanks, the Cartier Tank has become one of the most iconic watch designs in history.

Its slim profile and clean lines feel as modern today as they did a century ago. With its recent resurgence on celebrity wrists and collector wishlists, the Tank is once again at the centre of the watch world.

Why Everyone’s Talking About the Santos

Created for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904, the Cartier Santos was one of the first men’s wristwatches ever designed. Its square face and exposed screws give it a modern, slightly industrial feel.

Recent reissues have introduced sleeker designs and metal combinations, making the Santos more popular than ever with both seasoned collectors and younger fans.

The Roadster Makes a Comeback

Though discontinued in the early 2010s, the Cartier Roadster is seeing renewed attention. With its automotive-inspired curves and bold crown, it offers something different from the usual Cartier classics.

Collectors are now seeking out the Roadster as a distinctive, less common option — especially in the pre-owned and vintage markets.

Nails, Screws, and Style: Cartier's Bold Jewellery Icons

Few jewellery pieces are as instantly recognisable as Cartier’s Love bracelet and Juste un Clou bangle.

The Love bracelet, launched in 1969, features a screw motif and comes with a matching tool to “lock” it onto the wrist — a design that’s both romantic and rebellious. The Juste un Clou, designed in the 1970s, transforms a simple nail into a bold and elegant piece of wearable art.

Both collections are now must-haves for fashion-forward collectors and are frequently spotted on celebrities, stylists, and influencers around the globe.

Why These Pieces Are Trending Again

So, why the surge in interest?

Timelessness plays a key role. These designs have stood the test of time and offer a refined alternative to trend-driven fashion. The renewed focus on heritage, quality, and sustainability has also pushed more buyers toward luxury items that hold long-term value.

Celebrity culture and social media visibility continue to elevate Cartier’s most iconic collections, introducing them to new generations. And for collectors, discontinued models like the Roadster offer the thrill of rarity and rediscovery.

Final Thoughts: Legacy in Motion

As we left the exhibition, it became clear that Cartier isn’t just looking back — it's still defining modern luxury today.

Whether you're drawn to the sleek sophistication of the Tank, the sporty heritage of the Santos, or the sculptural simplicity of a nail bangle, Cartier offers more than jewellery and watches — it offers lasting identity through design.

Want More?

We’re planning a few follow-up features:

• A guide to spotting authentic vintage Cartier

• Value trends of pre-owned models like the Roadster and Santos

• Our top picks for first-time Cartier buyers

Let us know what you'd like to read next!