Cartier Makers Marks and Information. Louis-François Cartier founded Cartier in Paris in 1847 when he took over the workshop of his master. In 1874, Louis-François’ son Alfred Cartier took over the company, but it was Alfred’s sons Louis, Pierre and Jacques, who were responsible for establishing the brand name worldwide.
In 1904, the Brazilian pioneer aviator, Alberto Santos-Dumont complained to his friend Louis Cartier of the unreliability and impracticality of using pocket watches while flying. Cartier designed a flat wristwatch with a distinctive square bezel. This watch was liked by not only Santos-Dumont but also many other customers. Thus the “Santos” was born. This was Cartier’s first men’s wristwatch.
Louis retained responsibility for the Paris branch, moving to the Rue de la Paix in 1899. He was responsible for some of the company’s most celebrated designs, like the mystery clocks (a type of clock with a transparent dial and so named because its mechanism is hidden), fashionable wristwatches and exotic orientalist Art Deco designs, including the colorful “Tutti Frutti” jewels. Reference: Wikipedia
Cartier Maker’s Mark
CARTIER: GOLD PILL-BOX, 1963 Modelled in the form of a walnut, the hinged cover opening to reveal a polished interior, signed Cartier, London hallmarks, length 4cm.
Sold for £ 5,100 (US$ 6,295) inc. premium at Bonham’s in 2021
CARTIER ART DECO JADE, SEED PEARL AND ENAMEL CASE
Opening to reveal a fitted mirror, jade, seed pearls, black and blue enamel, 18k yellow gold (French marks), circa 1930, signed Cartier Paris, Londres, New York, Made in France
Size/Dimensions: 4.6 x 4.6 x 2.2 cm (17⁄8 x 17⁄8 x 7⁄8 in)
Gross Weight: 80.1 grams
Sold for USD 11,250 in 2022
Cartier Gold and Ruby Pill Box
14 kt., the circular pill box of ribbed gold, 2 square-cut rubies, signed Cartier, ap. 11.3 dwts.
Sold for $1,512 (includes buyer’s premium) at Doyle in 2021
14K YELLOW GOLD CARTIER SNUFF BOX, 19g – A French engine turned hinged body, monogrammed C. E. W. Maker’s mark and 14k marked to the interior lip of the box.
4.4 cm x 3.3 cm
Sold for CA$750 at A.H. Wilkens Auctions & Appraisals in 2022
