Cartier Vendôme Must Champagne - Large - ref. 590003

Vendôme: a date with creativity

Description

The Vendôme by Cartier? As elegant and timeless as the Place itself. The perfectly round, almost uninterrupted case recalls the purest and simplest form of watchmaking. The strap, attached to the case by thin horizontal lugs, seems barely to hold the watch in place. And of course, there is a reverent respect for Cartier’s signature codes: a railway minute track, blued hands, and a winding crown adorned with a sapphire cabochon. Absolute refinement!

Its Must version in gold plating gives this watch two major qualities: naturally, a more accessible price than its solid gold counterpart, but above all, a welcome departure from the classicism of traditional Cartier dials. In its larger size and with its superb champagne-coloured dial, it offers a strong wrist presence while remaining exceptionally slim and comfortable. It is paired with a black alligator leather strap (later replacement) fitted to a Cartier vermeil pin buckle.

How to wear it?

This Cartier Vendôme is truly perfect for any occasion. Neither too elegant nor too casual, it is particularly suited to everyday life, a true city watch. Thanks to its champagne dial, it offers a beautiful alternative to the classic yellow gold Vendôme, which is typically found only with a white dial. This shade also pairs effortlessly with a variety of leather strap colours.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Much like the Place after which it is named, the Cartier Vendôme evokes luxury and subtle refinement. Françoise appreciates its slender lines, the elegance of its Roman numerals and its understated character. The Vendôme also allows Cartier to offer a round-dial model at a time when such designs were still uncommon for the Maison, better known for its shaped watches.

This version with a champagne dial is not one Françoise frequently encounters on wrists around Paris. In addition, its 30 mm diameter makes it a truly unisex model.

History

As early as 1934, Louis Cartier patented a new way of attaching leather straps: on either side, a horizontal bar would slot into a sort of central loop fixed to the case.

The Cartier Vendôme was introduced around 1973 in tribute to the Parisian square of the same name, a meeting place for jewellers and watchmakers. The two lugs are said to evoke the two streets leading to Place Vendôme: Rue de la Paix and Rue de Castiglione.

During the same period, Cartier launched its Must line in gold-plated silver and silver, offering the Maison’s iconic designs at more accessible prices for a younger clientele.