Cartier Panthère Gold & Steel - Small Model - 1995 (papers)

The missing link between Madonna, Margaret Thatcher and Keith Richards

Description

Do we still need to introduce the iconic Cartier Panthère? Cartier has always been a master of shapes and form. The bold, even daring, idea of pairing a sharply square case with rounded edges and long, slender links is something only the Maison could have achieved. A winning gamble that has since been interpreted in solid gold, two-tone, steel, pavé, large sizes, small sizes…

This might be the most classic version with a twist: the small model in yellow gold and steel on its two-tone bracelet. However, this particular Panthère features a rarer three-row gold bracelet.

The dial is also at its purest, just like the earliest Panthère watches, no date window. This small version is undeniably feminine (compared to the classic size, seen equally on women’s and men’s wrists), yet even more pleasant to wear than its larger sibling, if that’s possible.

Finally, the watch comes with its 1995 papers.

How to wear it?

Metal-bracelet watches are, and will always remain, sporty to the eye. The strength of the Panthère lies in its lines, both clean and soft, that soften the impression of pure sportiness. Its fine, articulated links give this Panthère an unexpected elegance. The jewel-like dimension comes from the presence of gold on the bezel and on the three-row gold bracelet.

Françoise wears it very casually, as an everyday watch, and tends to choose more formal leather-strap watches for the evening. Although… this is a watch that fits in anywhere!

Why did Françoise choose it?

If Françoise chose it, she’s not the only one. It has been seen, and is still seen, on the wrists of many actresses, musicians, and political figures. If Françoise had to pick one Cartier to wear for life, she might very well choose a Panthère. A metal bracelet (whichever its colour combination) offers incomparable durability and comfort. This smaller version remains more discreet than its counterparts. And the yellow-gold/steel pairing perfectly recalls the origins of the Panthère, released at a time when gold and steel were frequently combined on watches. That trend has made a strong comeback in recent years, the perfect opportunity to be 2025 fashionable with a watch from 1980!

History

The Panthère watch was launched in the festive spirit of the 1980s, when Michèle Kaouni was Director of Creation at Cartier. Its name comes from the bracelet: supple and fluid, it evokes the rounded, elegant, sensual way the feline moves. At Cartier, referencing the panther through its coat pattern is part of the Maison’s identity. The spotted motif first appeared in 1914 on another ladies’ wristwatch, crafted in onyx and diamonds.

From the moment it was released, it was embraced by an eclectic crowd: Madonna, Keith Richards, Margaret Thatcher… Why not you?