Cartier Watches

by: Michael O'Brien

Available in an unusually wide range of prices and a somewhat topsy-turvy ride through the history of watch making, the Cartier watch continues to represent a unique style and design that makes these timepieces some of the most stunning in the world. Since beginning design of its first wristwatch in 1904, Cartier watches have graced the wrists of the fashion conscious the world over. Ironically, style and fashion was not the initial goal of the founder Louis Francois Cartier. The Santos model was developed in response to the demand for a reliable timepiece for use by early aviators and a redesigned version of Santos remains in production.

Practicality again became the goal of the design for a rugged yet uniquely styled timepiece called the Tank. Initially released in 1917, the Tank is still being produced and, like the Santos, has been redesigned to incorporate modern watch making techniques but retaining the unique style that has made these so watches popular over the years.

Cartier watches have featured precision movements produced by other watch makers, but the outward style and chic image of these timepieces had always reflected the artistic dream of the founder. After Louis Cartier died in 1942, the company suffered from a lack artistic vision that would take many, many years to recapture. The company was able to right itself during the nineteen seventies under new leadership though success was based somewhat on a return to the past, relying on tried and true designs like the Tank and the Santos. The nineteen eighties and nineteen nineties saw a flurry of new designs like the Roadster, Pasha, Ferrari and Divan.

About the Author

Michael O'Brien is a writer for many popular websites.