Watches are no longer used just as a means to keep time—they’ve become crucial accessories to our outfits.
New lines like jewelry watches have even appeared, which are often decked out with multi-colored stones and outlandish designs. But if that isn’t your cup of tea and opt for a more classic and timeless timepiece, we know the perfect watch for you: Cartier’s Panthère Watch.
This simple yet elegant watch was a favorite among celebrities in the '80s, worn by the likes of Jane Fonda, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Madonna. Proving its timelessness, the Panthere is still spotted on the wrists of A-listers today. Ahead, we delve into the history of the watch, how much it costs, and the different local celebrities who own it.
A Brief History of the Cartier Panthere Watch
For Cartier, the panther is more than just a symbol—it's a cornerstone of their legacy. Dating back to 1914 when Louis Cartier commissioned the renowned French illustrator George Barbier to create the Lady with a Panther drawing, the particular animal has been synonymous with Cartier's brand identity. This illustration graced an invitation for a Cartier jewelry exhibition, setting the stage for the panther's iconic presence in the brand's creations.
Following this, Cartier introduced a stunning ladies' wristwatch in the same year, featuring a panther pattern crafted from black onyx and diamonds. This marked the beginning of the jeweler's enduring love affair with the panther, inspiring a series of spectacular jewelry pieces over the decades.
From panther heads to entire panther silhouettes and intricate panther-inspired patterns, Cartier has seamlessly woven the essence of the panther into their designs. In 1983, Cartier introduced the Panthère de Cartier watch collection, which is named after its flexible bracelet that moves gracefully like the aforementioned creature.
The Defining Characteristics of a Cartier Panthere Watch
Cartier is renowned for its diverse range of watch designs, spanning from the classic rectangular Tank to the round Ballon Bleu and its one-of-a-kind Crash watch. The Panthère de Cartier watch also stands out with its own distinct characteristics.
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Typically, Panthère watches feature a square case, a bezel adorned with eight rivets, and a matching square dial. The dial is marked with black Roman numerals and a rail-style minute track in black. Completing the elegant look are blue sword-shaped hands and a discreet Cartier signature subtly embedded in the Roman numeral X. The watch is topped with a faceted octagonal crown, adorned with a blue cabochon-cut stone. Complementing the design is a five-piece link bracelet, known for its exceptional flexibility. The piece, meanwhile, is powered by a quartz movement for precise timekeeping.
The Difference Between a Cartier Panthere and Santos Watch
To the untrained eye, one could easily mistake the Panthère for the Santos. The two share quite a number of similarities, from the square cases to the rivets on the bezel, and even the dials. While the Panthère is based on the Santos’ design, the biggest difference lies in the bracelet and the overall appeal of the watches. The Santos has a more rugged and industrial design, while the Panthère appears softer and feminine.
How Much Does a Cartier Panthere Watch Cost?
The Cartier Panthère comes in three sizes: mini (18mm), small (23mm), and medium (27mm). The price varies depending on the size and the material of the watch you choose to get. The mini and small can also double as jewelry–just picture it layered with a tennis bracelet or a Cartier Love bangle.
Panthère De Cartier Watch Mini Model, $3300 (approx. P188,487), CARTIER, cartier.com. Panthère De Cartier Watch Small Model, $4350 (approx. P248,522), CARTIER, cartier.com. Panthère De Cartier Watch Medium Model, $5200 (approx. P297,083), CARTIER, cartier.com.
Local Celebrities Who Own a Cartier Panthere Watch
1. AC Bonifacio
If you look closely at AC Bonifacio's feed, you'll spot the Cartier Panthère watch in most of her OOTDs. Here, she even layered it with a Tiffany & Co. HardWear bracelet.
2. Heart Evangelista
During one of Heart Evangelista's vacations, she wore a gold mini Panthère as her beach accessory. Now, that's how you vacation in style!
3. Kelsey Merritt
Model Kelsey Merritt proves that the Panthère watch can be dressed up and down, wearing it with her chic athleisure 'fit.
4. Nikki Huang
Rustan's heiress Nikki Huang wears a medium-sized Panthère on one of her trips to Palawan. It truly is an eye-catching timepiece!
5. Marian Rivera
We all know that primetime queen Marian Rivera's wardrobe is composed of classic pieces, and the Panthère watch is a perfect piece in her collection.
6. Small Laude
Socialite-turned-content-creator Small Laude is a lover of all things luxe. On a recent trip to Osaka, she bought herself a silver Panthère watch that she couldn't wait to flaunt to her viewers.
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