Cartier Vendôme Must Noire - Large model - ca. 1990

Vendôme: A Journey to the Heart of Creativity 

Description

Cartier’s Vendôme? As elegant and timeless as the Place itself! The very round, almost seamless case evokes the simplest Watch shape. The Bracelet, connected to the case by thin horizontal links, seems to barely hold the Watch in place. And of course, it adheres strictly to Cartier’s design codes: a railway-style minute track, blued hands, and a winding crown set with a Sapphire Cabochon. Absolute refinement! 

The Must collection continues to offer originality; this model is reference 1861. This makes it possible to own a Cartier classic at a more affordable price than the solid gold versions (which, moreover, will never feature this uniquely original dial). With a 30 mm diameter, it makes a striking statement on the wrist while remaining very slim and comfortable.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Just like the square of the same name, the Cartier Vendôme evokes luxury and subtlety. It’s a discreet model with delicate lines. That’s why we trust it completely. The Vendôme also offers a model with a round dial—a rarity at Cartier, which is known for its “shaped” watches.

Françoise loves the Must collection for its younger, more casual take on Cartier watchmaking. She also enjoys showcasing more affordable alternatives to the classic solid-gold line. Here, an extremely minimalist dial in deep black lends the watch all its elegance and simplicity. This large size can be worn on either a man’s or a woman’s wrist.

History

As early as 1934, Louis Cartier patented a new way of attaching leather Bracelets: on either side, a horizontal bar would slide into a central buckle attached to the case.

The Cartier Vendôme was introduced around 1973 as a tribute to the eponymous Parisian square, a gathering place for jewelers and watchmakers. The two clasps are said to evoke the two streets leading to the Place Vendôme: Rue de la Paix and Rue de Castiglione. 

Around the same time, Cartier launched its Must collection in gold-plated and silver versions, offering the Maison’s iconic designs at prices more accessible to young people.