Want to wear a luxurious Cartier wristwatch but wonder if it’s within your reach?
Since they were founded in 1847, Cartier has been one of the most respected luxury watch brands in the history of watchmaking. With their elegant style and classic designs, their reputation as one of the best watchmakers continues in the modern world today.
Yet, while their watches are undeniably desirable, the hefty price tags can make them feel out of reach for many of us.
Today, we will share with you 5 of the most affordable Cartier timepieces that will bring you closer to realizing your dream of wearing a luxurious Cartier wristwatch, just as we did when we featured some of the cheapest Patek Philippe watches you can buy.
So, instead of searching for Cartier Tanks alternatives on the internet, why not check out our detailed review below to find out which Cartier watches would suit your budget?
The cheapest Cartier watch overall is the Cartier Panthere.
So, if you don’t want to miss this opportunity to have your very own Cartier watch, let’s get started!
What’s The Cheapest Cartier Watch?
Here are the 5 of the most affordable Cartier watches on the market.
#5. Cartier Santos – $2,930

- Dimensions: 20mm dimension, 6mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 30m
- Movement: Quartz
- Crystal: Sapphire
If you are looking for a new timepiece that would perfectly fit on your wrist, then this Cartier Santos might be the best option for you!
The Cartier Santos collection is famous for being the first pilot’s watch designed for male aviators. It began when Louis Cartier met Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont and decided to create a wristwatch that could be easily worn during flight.
This watch showcases a squared-shape stainless steel watch case, a blue sapphire cabochon crown, and a white dial adorned with black Roman numerals hour markers and blue sword-shaped hands.
It is also powered by a quartz movement renowned for its accuracy and precision, making it not just an aesthetically alluring accessory on your wrist but also a reliable timepiece to use for any occasion.
And for the icing on the cake? You can have this Cartier Santos for under $2,930!
#4. Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier – $2,450

- Dimensions: 36mm dimension, 9.60mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 30m
- Movement: Quartz
- Crystal: Sapphire
The Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier is a luxury timepiece model that offers a very straightforward style without compromising its elegance and classiness.
The simple look of these watches sets them apart from other collections that have daring designs, like the Ballon Bleu and Ballon Blanc collections.
Unlike other smaller models inside Cartier’s watch catalog, this watch features a slightly larger watch case measuring 36mm with a thickness of 9.60mm. It also has a silver-tone smooth bezel paired with a black leather strap, which adds classiness to its beauty.
These time-only watches are run by quartz movements and have a water resistance rating of 30 meters, making them suitable for everyday wear without worrying about minor water splashes.
This Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier can be bought for as little as $2,450.
#3. Cartier Tank – $2,390

- Dimensions: 23mm dimension, 6mm thickness
- Case Material: Yellow-gold
- Water resistance: 30m
- Movement: Quartz
- Crystal: Sapphire
There is no doubt that the most popular and best-selling model from the brand is none other than the Cartier Tank collection. This watch line has adorned the wrists of famous figures, including Andy Warhol, JFK, and Muhammad Ali, among other big names.
However, due to the high demand for these watches, their prices continue to rise steadily.
But if you really want to wear a watch like this, you can opt for this vintage Cartier Tank Vermeil Quartz watch.
This timepiece boasts a solid 18k yellow-gold case with a red leather bracelet. And like most modern Cartier Tank watches, it also has a white dial with blue sword-shaped hands, Roman numeral hour markers, and a black minute scale on the inner rim.
Powered by an ultra-precise quartz movement, it keeps time with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring you’re always right on schedule.
And the best part here is this vintage collectible item can be yours for only $2,390!
#2. Cartier Pasha – $2,360

- Dimensions: 35mm dimension, 10mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
The Cartier Pasha collection was introduced in 1985 and was named in tribute to the Pasha of Marrakesh, who was a permanent client of Louis Cartier.
This watch line is famous for its automatic mechanical movements, known for their precision and reliability. And this particular Cartier Pasha wristwatch is not exempted from this fact.
This watch model showcases a sleek black dial adorned with a date window, elegant hands, distinctive Arabic numeral hour markers, and a meticulously polished steel bezel.
It also has an iconic screw-down crown that perfectly combines functionality with style.
Moreover, the brushed steel bracelet and sturdy clasp offer both comfort and unwavering protection, guaranteeing your watch stays put, no matter how action-packed your day gets.
This amazing model is available in the secondary market for a very reasonable price of $2,360.
#1. Cartier Panthere Unisex – $2,300

- Dimensions: 22mm dimension, 6mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 30m
- Movement: Quartz
- Crystal: Sapphire
And the cheapest Cartier watch on this list is none other than the Cartier Panthere, a wristwatch designed to be worn by both men and women.
With its timeless elegance and style, it’s no wonder why it is one of the beloved watches of style icons.
The collection’s name comes from the ultra-flexible bracelet that mirrored the movements of Cartier’s symbolic animal, the panther.
These watches feature a steel case with a yellow-gold fixed bezel, scratch-resistant sapphire, blue cabochon crown, and beige dials.
But what truly sets them apart is what’s ticking inside: high-precision quartz movements that ensure accuracy and reliability. They are designed to withstand water depths up to 30 meters, making them reliable companions for style and durability even in unexpected circumstances.
So, if you want to make your dream of owning a Cartier wristwatch a reality, maybe it is time to buy a Cartier Panthere Unisex today for a very reasonable price of $2,300.
How Much Is The Cheapest Cartier?
As for our research, the current cheapest price for a Cartier timepiece is around $2,300, and it is the Cartier Panthere Quartz Unisex Watch.
But note that this price range only applies to pre-owned grey market watches made by the brand.
Also, this price range may change depending on the current state of the watch market.
Sometimes, a watch may decrease or increase its value over time. And this depends on different models and the current demand for their watch collections.
What Is The Price Of A Cartier Watch?
Since its establishment in 1847 in Paris, France, Cartier’s reputation as one of the world’s foremost watch manufacturers and jewelers has continued to soar.
The brand’s dedication to craftsmanship, creativity, and classic designs has earned it tremendous recognition.
In fact, Cartier’s exceptional creations have earned them the illustrious title of ‘Jewelers of Kings’.
As a result, watches from this brand have become some of the most highly sought-after and desirable timepieces on the market, causing their prices to soar above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.
And to show you an overview of their watches and their hefty price tag, here is an updated retail price table.
Category | Price |
Santos De Cartier | Starting at $2,600 |
Tank Louis Cartier | Starting at $10,200 |
Tank Must | Starting at $2,920 |
Ronde Must De Cartier | Starting at $2,700 |
Santos Dumont | Starting at $3,900 |
Tank Francaise | Starting at $3,700 |
Ballon Bleu De Cartier | Starting at $5,500 |
Pasha De Cartier | Starting at $5,300 |
Why Is Cartier So Expensive?
Designer Status
The history of the Cartier watch brand began by catering to the extravagant desires of the elite in society. Due to this, all of their watch models are made of high-quality materials and built with outstanding attention to detail.
And although it has changed over the years, the brand maintains its exclusivity and classiness.
Today, watches from the famous house of Cartier are considered designer-status items. Because of the brand’s strong history of craftsmanship, elegance, and association with the elite and celebrities, wearing a Cartier watch is generally regarded as a status statement.
High Quality Materials
Cartier takes pleasure in utilizing only top-tier materials on every watch they create in their workshops because of their desire for timeless designs, maximum comfort, and long-lasting durability.
Their models are often constructed from high-quality steel, rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum. And some are even decorated with precious gems and stones.
Elite Craftsmanship
Cartier watches are renowned for their fine craftsmanship and high quality. Their timepiece models carry a special distinction known as the “Geneva Seal”, which is also known as “Haute Horlogerie”.
They pay meticulous attention to detail, with each component handcrafted and perfected by highly skilled watchmakers dedicated to crafting nothing but the finest timekeeping instruments imaginable.
Limited Watch Supply
While Cartier has produced approximately 490,000 watches, the ever-increasing demand for their timepieces has led to a situation where their availability is becoming more inadequate for the market.
Due to this reason, some of the most desirable models from the brand are expected to appreciate significantly in value over time.
How To Save Money On A Cartier Watch?
Size Is Important
If you want to save a few hundred dollars on timepieces, there is a general formula to follow. What exactly is it? Choose a smaller watch.
By opting for a smaller watch, you can save a few hundred bucks. However, if you have a larger wrist, this can be a problem. Unless you don’t mind wearing an awkward-looking watch.
Negotiate
Learn how to bargain and negotiate. Cartier’s dealers frequently impose a slight markup to the original price, allowing for potential bargaining and the prospect of lowering the final cost.
Mastering this underrated and often ignored skill will surely guarantee you save at least a few hundred dollars.
Opt For A Leather or Rubber Watch Straps
Choosing a leather or rubber strap for your Cartier watch will typically reduce the overall cost. These materials are significantly less expensive than other precious metals, such as white gold or even stainless steel.
So, next time you inquire about brand-new or pre-owned timepieces, ask the seller if there are other available straps for you to save more money.
Where To Buy Cartier Watches Online?
Fashionphile
For more than 20 years, Fashionphile cemented its place as one of the world’s top resellers of pre-owned luxury items, including Cartier and other high-end watches.
They are known for curating high-quality supply and providing best-in-class shopping experiences for its customers.
Jomashop
Jomashop is one of the premier online marketplaces that sells some of the most sought-after luxury fashion items to customers around the globe.
They are known to only sell 100% authentic new and pre-owned luxury timepieces, including Cartier, Rolex, and Patek Philippe watches.
Bob’s Watches
With more than 2 decades in the business, Bob’s Watches has built a solid reputation as a reputable dealer of authentic and affordable Cartier watches.
And like the Jomashop, Bob’s Watches offers a money-back guarantee option if you’re not satisfied with their product.
Is Cartier Watch A Good Investment?
In our previous article, where we compared Rolex and Cartier watches, we learned that Cartier watches can still be a good idea for some individuals. But it largely depends on your chosen model from the brand.
Although Rolex watches can hold more value than any Cartier watch models, some of the highly desirable timepieces from the brand, such as the Cartier Tank, can still appreciate value in time.
About Cartier
Cartier was established in Paris in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier.
Despite the enormous uncertainty and turbulence due to the continuing French Revolution, Cartier continued to find prosperity and expansion over the next decade, launching the first Cartier shop in 1859.
As one of the earlier generations of fine watchmaking, Cartier made a significant contribution to innovating the watchmaking industry.
Among their major achievements are the first pilot’s watch, the Cartier Santos, and the Cartier Tank, which redefined elegance and became a timeless classic.
Today, Cartier remains one of the leading high-end watchmakers, steadfastly upholding its legacy of excellence, innovation, and classic sophistication.
With Cartier’s unchanging allure and unparalleled craftsmanship, they continue to capture the hearts of connoisseurs and collectors worldwide.
Cheapest Cartier Watches – FAQs
No. Cartier watches are generally more affordable compared to Rolex watches.
One of the most affordable Cartier timepiece models today is the Cartier Panthere Unisex watch, with a very reasonable price of $2,300.
Although Cartier watches are relatively hard to acquire due to their limited annual production, they are still more accessible compared to other high-end brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe.
Cheapest Cartier Watches – Conclusion
And there you have it! Those are 5 of the most affordable watches from Cartier. We hope that this guide can help you find the perfect and most attainable luxury watch for your wrist.
The cheapest Cartier watch we found is the Cartier Panthere.
And to sum up the list, here is a recap of the 5 cheapest Cartier watches:
#1. Cartier Panthere Unisex – $2,300
#4. Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier – $2,450
Now that you know about the most affordable timepieces from Cartier, why don’t you check out our review of the most affordable Rolex timepieces available online?
And if you have questions, comments, or suggestions, feel free to leave us a message below.