Sell a Cartier Panthère Watch & Learn Its History

San Diego Watch Buyers

Sell a Cartier Panthère Watch & Learn Its History

In the world of luxury timepieces, few brands are as iconic and revered as Cartier. Since its founding in Paris in 1847, Cartier has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, combining exquisite craftsmanship with timeless elegance.

One of the standout watches from their collections is the Panthère de Cartier, a timepiece that embodies the brand’s essence of sophistication and style.

At C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla, you can sell a Cartier Panthère watch for a generous cash price. Our owner Carl Blackburn has been a trusted San Diego watch buyer for over a decade. He has bought and sold hundreds of pre-owned Cartier timepieces, and pays premium prices for vintage Panthère watches, as well as “like-new” models.

To get a free market appraisal before selling your Cartier watch, send Carl a text message with photos to 619-723-8589 or visit our Contact page.

Sell a Cartier Watch in La Jolla
A Vintage 1980s Gold Cartier Panthère watch from C. Blackburn Jewelers, La Jolla
History of the Cartier Panthère  Watch

The inspiration for the Panthère watch can be traced back to the early 20th century when Louis Cartier, grandson of the company’s founder Louis-François Cartier, became fascinated with the sleek and graceful movements of panthers. This fascination led to the incorporation of panther motifs into Cartier’s designs, including jewelry and timepieces.

The Panthère de Cartier watch collection made its debut in 1983. It was designed by Aldo Cipullo, an Italian jewelry designer who also created the iconic Cartier Love bracelet. The watch was characterized by its distinctive square case with rounded corners, integrated bracelet, and the iconic panther-head motifs on the case.

The Panthère watch quickly gained popularity among fashion icons, celebrities, and trendsetters during the 1980s and 1990s. Its sleek and sophisticated design appealed to both men and women, making it a versatile accessory for any occasion.

During this period, the Panthère watch became synonymous with luxury and elegance, representing the epitome of Cartier’s craftsmanship and design excellence. It was featured in numerous films, television shows, and fashion editorials, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic.

Over the years, Cartier released various iterations of the Panthère watch, incorporating new materials, colors, and design elements while staying true to its original aesthetic. Despite these updates, the essence of the Panthère watch has remained unchanged, ensuring its continued relevance and desirability in the world of haute horlogerie.

In 2004, Cartier discontinued the Panthère watch to the great surprise of many. However, they relaunched Panthère de Cartier in 2017, reintroducing it to a new generation of watch enthusiasts. The revival was met with widespread acclaim, reaffirming the enduring appeal and iconic status of this beloved timepiece.

Are you ready to sell your Cartier Panthère watch? Text details about your timepiece, including photos, to Carl Blackburn at C. Blackburn Jewelers: 619-723-8589 or visit our Contact page.

Sapphire Winder in Cartier Timepiece
This beautiful gold Cartier de Panthère timepiece has a sapphire winder.
The Features & Design of the Panthère Watch

One of the most striking features of the Panthère watch is its flexible and articulated bracelet, which mimics the fluidity of a panther’s movements. The bracelet is composed of small, interlocking links, allowing it to conform comfortably to the wrist. The case of the watch often features a cabochon-cut gemstone on the crown, adding a touch of luxury and refinement.

Let’s look a little more closely at each aspect of the Panthère:

Case Design: The most recognizable aspect of the Panthère watch is its square case with rounded corners. This unique shape gives the watch a sleek and modern look while maintaining a sense of timeless elegance. The case is typically made of stainless steel or precious metals such as gold or platinum, adding to its luxury appeal.

Bracelet: One of the defining features of the Panthère watch is its integrated bracelet, which seamlessly blends into the case design. The bracelet consists of small, interlocking links that create a flexible and comfortable fit on the wrist. This bracelet design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the watch but also reflects the fluidity and grace of a panther’s movements.

Articulated Links: The links of the Panthère bracelet are meticulously crafted to allow for articulation, meaning they can move and flex independently. This feature not only enhances the comfort of wearing the watch but also adds to its visual appeal, resembling the supple movements of a panther’s body.

Dial: The dial of the Panthère watch is typically minimalistic yet elegant, featuring Roman numeral hour markers or simple baton indices. Some models may also include a date window for added functionality. The dial design is often kept understated to highlight the beauty of the case and bracelet.

Cabochon Crown: A signature feature of many Cartier watches, including the Panthère, is the cabochon-cut gemstone on the crown. This decorative element adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to the watch, with popular choices including blue sapphires, rubies, or black spinels.

Variety of Materials and Finishes: While stainless steel is a common material choice for the Panthère watch, Cartier also offers variations in precious metals such as yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold, catering to different tastes and preferences. Additionally, some models feature diamond accents on the case or bracelet, adding an extra layer of luxury.

Versatility: Despite its bold and distinctive design, the Cartier Panthère watch remains versatile enough to be worn for both formal and casual occasions. Its timeless aesthetic transcends trends, making it a true wardrobe staple for those who appreciate classic elegance with a modern twist.

Iconic Panther Motifs: Only on the rarest occasions does the Panthère actually have the image of a panther on the timepiece, such as with the Limited Edition Cartier Revelation D’une Panther, which retails for over $120k and is beyond the reach of most buyers.

Blackburn Jewelers in San Diego buys previously-owned Panthère watches, including rare, limited edition models. Get started by texting a message and photos to Carl Blackburn at 619-723-8589 or visit our Contact page.

Does the Cartier Panthere look like a panther?
From this perspective, we can see that the Panthère de Cartier evokes the appearance of a panther.
Cartier Panthère Watch Models

Cartier offers a variety of Panthère watch models, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here’s a detailed explanation of some of the different Cartier Panthère watch models:

Panthère Small: This model is characterized by its smaller case size, making it ideal for those with petite wrists or those who prefer a more understated look. The small Panthère watch typically features a quartz movement for precise timekeeping and is available in a range of materials, including stainless steel, yellow gold, and two-tone combinations.

Panthère Medium: The medium-sized Panthère watch strikes a balance between elegance and presence, making it a popular choice for executive women. It features a slightly larger case compared to the small model and may offer additional features such as a date complication or diamond accents on the dial or bezel.

Panthère Large: For those who prefer a more substantial timepiece, the large model of the Panthère watch offers a bold and striking presence on the wrist. It features a generous case size and may include advanced complications such as a chronograph or a dual-time function for travelers.

Panthère Mini: This ultra-compact version of the Panthère watch is designed for those who prefer a minimalist and delicate timepiece. With its diminutive case size and slender bracelet, the mini model exudes femininity and refinement. Despite its small stature, it retains all the iconic design elements of the Panthère collection.

Panthère Diamond-Paved: This luxurious variation of the Panthère watch is adorned with dazzling diamond pavé on the case, dial, and/or bracelet, adding a glamorous touch to the classic design. The diamond-paved model elevates the elegance and sophistication of the Panthère watch, making it a coveted choice for special occasions and red carpet events.

Panthère Two-Tone (Bicolor): Combining the warmth of gold with the versatility of stainless steel, the two-tone Panthère watch offers a modern and sensual look. The contrast between the two metals create a harmonious and eye-catching aesthetic, while the integrated bracelet seamlessly integrates both materials for a cohesive look. The bicolor design adds versatility to the watch, allowing it to effortlessly transition from day to night and complement a variety of jewelry and accessories.

Panthère Gemstone: In addition to the classic cabochon-cut gemstone on the crown, some Panthère watches feature additional gemstone accents on the dial, bezel, or bracelet. These gemstone models may incorporate precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, or sapphires, enhancing the watch’s allure and luxury appeal.

Panthère Art Deco: Inspired by vintage designs from the Cartier archives, the retro Panthère watch pays homage to the brand’s rich heritage while incorporating modern elements for a contemporary twist. This model features an Art Deco dial with vintage-inspired accents that capture the nostalgia of bygone eras.

Panthère Skeleton: This avant-garde interpretation of the Panthère watch features a skeletonized dial and transparent case back, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate mechanical movement within. The skeleton model showcases Cartier’s expertise in watchmaking craftsmanship and is sure to captivate enthusiasts with its mesmerizing design.

Panthère High Jewelry: The pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship, the high jewelry Panthère watch is a masterpiece of haute horlogerie. It is meticulously handcrafted with the finest materials, including rare gemstones, intricate precious metalwork, and elaborate motifs inspired by nature and Cartier’s iconic panther theme. Each high jewelry Panthère watch is a true work of art, destined to be cherished as a precious heirloom for generations to come.

Panthère Watch Limited Editions: Cartier occasionally releases limited edition versions of the Panthère watch, featuring unique design elements and precious materials. These limited editions (such as the 150th Anniversary Panthère) offer collectors the opportunity to own a truly exclusive piece that celebrates the heritage and innovation of the Cartier brand.

All models showcase the versatility and creativity of the Panthère de Cartier watch collection, which offers a diverse range of options for watch enthusiasts seeking elegance, sophistication, and timeless style.

Furthermore, if you are looking to sell a Panthère watch, you can be assured that whichever model you own, C. Blackburn Jewelers in San Diego will provide you with a substantial cash offer. Get a complimentary market appraisal by texting details of your watch to Carl Blackburn at:  at 619-723-8589 or visit our Contact page.

San Diego Cartier Watch Dealers
Note that the Cartier Panthère watch buckle shows the metal type, such as 18k gold.
Where Can I Buy a Cartier Panthère Watch?

If you are considering buying a Panthère watch, it’s essential to ensure the timepiece’s authenticity, quality, and reliability. Here in San Diego, we are fortunate to have an actual Cartier store at Fashion Valley Mall that sells Cartier watches and fine jewelry.

However, you don’t need to limit your shopping search to a Cartier store (unless you are searching for a brand new Panthère watch). You also can visit a recognized estate jeweler like C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla. In addition to buying Cartier watches, we also sell pre-owned Cartier watches.

If we currently don’t have any Panthère watches in our jewelry store (they do sell quickly!), we’ll be happy to search for the model you’re looking for via our network of nationwide estate jewelers, who we’ve known for decades, and we’ll guarantee its authenticity.

You also can check the upcoming luxury watch sales at established auction house like Christies and Sotheby’s. While buying a Panthère via an eBay auction is a possibility, we only would advise buying from a very established fine jeweler who also has a bricks and mortar store, and auctions Cartier watches only as a supplementary activity to their instore retail business.

How to Authenticate a Cartier Watch
The caseback of a Cartier Panthère includes an engraved serial number and the Cartier logo.
How Can I Authenticate a Cartier Panthère Watch?

If you are buying a Panthère in the manner we described above, there is little to worry about with regards to authenticating the timepiece. You can be sure that the Panthère watch being sold has already gone through a precise authentication process.

However, if you are buying the Panthère in some other way, then this requires attention to detail and knowledge of the specific characteristics and features that distinguish genuine Cartier timepieces from counterfeit or replica ones.

Here are some steps to help you authenticate a Cartier Panthère watch:

1. Examine the Overall Quality: Genuine Cartier watches are crafted with precision and attention to detail. Inspect the overall quality of the watch, including the materials used, the weight of the watch, and the feel of the movement. Cartier watches are known for their solid construction and smooth, precise movements.

2. Check the Brand Markings and Engravings: Look for the Cartier logo and brand markings on the watch dial, case back, and clasp. These should be cleanly engraved or embossed with sharp, clear lines. Pay attention to the font and spacing of the engravings, as Cartier uses specific fonts and designs for its branding.

3. Verify the Serial Number: Every Cartier Panthère watch comes with a unique serial number engraved on the case back. Verify the serial number with Cartier’s records to ensure authenticity. You can contact Cartier directly or use online resources to check the validity of the serial number.

4. Inspect the Dial and Hands: Cartier watches feature high-quality dials with precise printing and detailing. The hour markers and hands should be evenly applied and free from any smudging or imperfections. Check the alignment of the hands and ensure they move smoothly without any jitteriness.

5. Examine the Crown and Cabochon: Authentic Cartier watches typically feature a distinctive crown with a blue cabochon-cut gemstone, usually a synthetic spinel or sapphire. Inspect the cabochon for clarity and color consistency, and ensure it is securely set within the crown.

6. Evaluate the Bracelet and Clasp: The bracelet of a Cartier Panthère watch should feel substantial and well-made, with smooth articulation and a secure clasp mechanism. Look for the Cartier logo or markings on the clasp and links, and check for any signs of wear or damage.

7. Check the Case Screws: You will always see flathead screws holding together the front and back of a Cartier watch case (not Phillips head screws).

8. Seek Professional Authentication: If you’re unsure about the authenticity of a Cartier Panthère watch, consider seeking professional authentication from a well-established jewelry store that deals in Cartier watches. They can examine the watch in detail, verify its authenticity, and provide expert guidance on its condition and value.

If you want to sell a Cartier Panthère watch in San Diego, but are unsure of its authenticity, you can set up an appointment with C. Blackburn Jewelers by calling 858-251-3006. We’ll be happy to authenticate your timepiece, and then make you an immediate cash offer.

The Cartier Ballon Bleu is one popular alternative to the Cartier de Panthère.
Panthère de Cartier Watch Alternatives

If you would like to buy a Cartier watch for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, you don’t need to limit yourself to the Panthère. Cartier has a diverse range of exquisite timepieces, each characterized by timeless elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and innovative design. Here are some other Cartier timepieces worth considering, along with their unique features:

Cartier Tank: Sportier that the Cartier de Panthère, the Tank is an iconic Cartier timepiece that epitomizes classic sophistication with its rectangular case inspired by the design of military tanks. Key features include a rectangular or square case with clean lines and distinctive proportions; and Roman numeral hour markers and blue sword-shaped hands for a timeless aesthetic.

Variations include the Tank Française, Tank Américaine, and Tank Solo, offering different case sizes, materials, and dial designs. The watch is available in stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum, with options for diamond-set bezels or straps.

Cartier Santos: More unisex than the Panthère, the Cartier Santos is a legendary watch that traces its origins back to the early 20th century when Louis Cartier created it for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Key features include a square case with rounded corners and exposed screws on the bezel, inspired by the design of early aircraft; and Roman numeral hour markers, blue sword-shaped hands, and a date window for functionality.

This watch is available in stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, or two-tone combinations, with options for leather or metal bracelets. Modern variations include the Santos de Cartier and Santos-Dumont collections, offering updated designs and movements.

Cartier Ballon Bleu: While the Panthère watch has a square case, the Cartier Ballon Bleu is characterized by its rounded case and distinctive blue cabochon crown. Key features include a spherical case with a polished or satin-finished bezel and a convex curved crystal for a sleek and elegant silhouette; Roman numeral or diamond-set hour markers; blued steel hands; and a guilloché-patterned dial for added visual interest.

This watch is available in stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, or two-tone variations, with options for diamond-set bezels or bracelets. Versions include the Ballon Bleu de Cartier, Ballon Blanc de Cartier, and Ballon Blanc de Cartier, offering different sizes and design variation

Cartier Pasha: The Cartier Pasha is a bold and distinctive timepiece with a round case and distinctive screw-down crown cap. Key features include a round case with a prominent screw-down crown cap featuring the Cartier logo or a synthetic cabochon gemstone; Arabic numeral or baton hour markers; sword-shaped hands; and a date window for practicality.

This watch is available in stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, or two-tone variations, with options for leather or metal bracelets. Versions include the Pasha de Cartier, Pasha Seatimer, and Pasha de Cartier Skeleton, offering different styles and functionalities.

So, whether you prefer the classic elegance of the Tank, the modern sophistication of the Ballon Bleu, or the seductive style of the Panthère, there’s a Cartier watch to suit every taste and occasion.

Cartier Tank Timepiece Set with Diamonds
The Cartier Tank is similar to the Panthère but is boxier in design (having been inspired by military tanks).
Get an Appraisal Before Selling Your Cartier Watch

Whether you would like to sell a Cartier Panthère, Tank, Ballon Blue, or any other timepiece from the legendary French jeweler, the first step is to get a cash appraisal, which is also known as a “market appraisal”. This will inform you of the value of your timepiece on the estate watch market.

If you live in San Diego country, please call C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla at 858-251-3006 to schedule an appointment to bring in your Cartier watch for a free appraisal and immediate cash offer.

If you would like to sell us your Cartier watch from out-of-town, we have a guaranteed safe process for shipping us your Cartier timepiece. But before we arrange for that, you can get a preliminary watch appraisal by texting us the details of your watch, along with photos to 619-723-8589.

Cartier watch sellers can also reach us by sending us an email via the contact form below. You can also contact us if you would like to sell Cartier jewelry.


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