Cartier Must 21, Ref. 9010 - c. 1990 (pouch)

Must 21: A New Addition to the Must Lineup

Description

The Cartier Must 21, with a steel case and folding clasp, boasts a bold new look. Highlyoriginal and sporty thanks to its dial—which combines steel with gold accents—it offers an alternative to more classic and simple gold models. With its rounded lines, it embodies both the elegance and creativity of the House. A streamlined watch with a white dial against which the blued hands stand out. 

The Cartier Must 21 stands out first and foremost for its Roman numerals, which are not superimposed on the dial but engraved directly onto the bezel, creating a unique interplay of light and depth. Next, there is a clean, solid-white dial—available in different versions—featuring the discreet inscription “Must de Cartier.” Finally, the Bracelet is almost integrated into the case, creating visual harmony. Its flexibility and the slimness of the case make it particularly comfortable to wear.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Whether it’s monochrome or adorned with geometric patterns, with or without hour markers, small or large, you’ll always find a Must watch that matches your personality. That’s why we offer models with different designs, ranging from classic to sporty. The Must 21 isn’t all that common. Yet it’s a unique model that Françoise wanted to highlight. Since its case isn’t made of precious metal, the Must offers a beautiful alternative to gold models. Boldness and elegance in one watch. It comes with a steel Bracelet but can also be worn with a leather strap, which makes it even more elegant.

History

The “Must de Cartier” collection was launched in 1973 by Robert Hocq and Alain-Dominique Perrin, who was appointed Managing Director of this new division of the House of Cartier.

This creative line not only allowed Cartier to expand its offerings but also to introduce a more accessible and unconventional range, thereby democratizing the luxury sector while preserving its traditional codes. 

Following lighters, pens, and leather goods, it was the Must watch’s turn to make its debut in 1976–77. The Vermeil Tank was the first to be introduced, bearing the inscription “Must de Cartier” and the two “C”s on the dial. Although the first models were made with manual-winding movements, Quartz quickly became the standard for these everyday, easy-to-wear watches. The Must 21 was launched in 1986 and modernized the Must line: it epitomized the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the watch became as much a fashion accessory as it was a timepiece.