Founded in 1847, Cartier has been gracing the wrists of elite watch collectors with functionality and superior timekeeping for centuries. If you’re new to buying a Cartier watch you may want to look at some of the manufacturer’s most popular models. From a wristwatch initially developed for a Brazilian aviator to timepieces inspired by an effortlessly floating balloon – this guide to the most popular Cartier watches should provide you with a balanced overview of the different styles, materials, and design available from this world-renowned watchmaking pioneer.

Paying attention to Cartier’s latest innovations certainly proves beneficial in the case of this Santos de Cartier Chronograph, released just last year. It features a sophisticated trio of chronograph counters that join traditional Roman numerals around the hour track and a crisp date feature, balancing the dial at 6 o’clock. The sporty-looking Santos de Cartier Chronograph watch ref WSSA0017 comes in a stainless steel case with an ADLC coated bezel. You can also enjoy transforming the look of this popular Cartier watch with a black alligator leather strap which comes as an additional accessory to its already fitted black rubber strap. The watch is powered by the self-winding Calibre 1904 CH MC. It powers a set of black steel sword-shaped hands around a satin-brushed silver dial. It’s also fitted with a vertical clutch, linear reset hammer and a column wheel to enhance overall mechanical performance. This chronograph embodies the authentic character of the Cartier Santos, combined with a sporty persona.

For ladies with a love for the finer things in life – a classic Cartier Tank Solo watch makes for the perfect gift to mark a special anniversary or birthday. This quartz-powered Cartier Tank Solo watch Ref W5200013 is a classic and understated timepiece. It features a silver opaline dial adorned with the signature blued steel hands and a set of crisp black Roman numerals around the hour track. An anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass lens will guarantee a clear view of the dial without experiencing any undesirable glare from the sun. It fits onto a steel rectangular-shaped case measuring 31 mm x 24.4 mm. For an accurate timekeeping tool that doubles up as a piece of elegant jewelry by night, this popular ladies Cartier watch is the go-to fashion statement for every special occasion in life.

Inspired by a floating balloon on the wrist, both male and female fans of Cartier’s impeccable manufacture can enjoy watches from the Ballon Bleu de Cartier collection. This elegant timepiece adds a dash of color to the wrist with its alluring 18k rose gold case and striking burgundy alligator leather strap. Perfect for the slender lady’s wrist, the watch’s 33mm bezel is adorned in lavish diamonds that scintillate under the light. Blued steel hands match a blue sapphire cabochon-adorned crown. This luxurious lady’s Cartier Ballon Bleu watch ref WJBB0033 combines the performance of a mechanically-powered movement with an attention-demanding design made from some of Cartier’s most exquisite materials.

Drive de Cartier watches have a distinct profile, with their softly curved cushion-shaped cases made from precious metals and a classic and simplified dial layout. This popular men’s Cartier watch ref WGNM0008 is governed by the stealth-like Calibre 1904-LU MC. This expertly engineered movement lies inside an 18k rose gold case equipped with 30-meter water resistance. Without a doubt, this Drive de Cartier watch will certainly appeal to lovers of classic timepieces. The moon phase indication located at 6 o’clock on a silver flinque dial is decorated in stunning shades of gold and blues. Time is presented on a no-fuss two-handed dial design, featuring one of Cartier’s familiar inner minute tracks. Whether you’re tracking the phases of the moon throughout the month or wearing this stylish timepiece as a statement – its traditional brown alligator leather strap promises to complete any smart outfit with a touch of elegance.

If you’re a fan of complications, a watch from the Rotonde de Cartier collection is most certainly where you should be investing your money. These timepieces, although elegant in overall design, showcase some of the brand’s most sophisticated techniques in Haute Horlogerie. This Rotonde de Cartier watch ref W1556368 not only features an oversized date feature located at the head of the dial, but it also enables you to make use out of a day/night indicator and a small second sub-dial at 6 o’clock. All elements on the dial are showcased against a stunning silver guilloche dial adorned with striking blued steel hands. The Calibre 1904-FU MC, which is one of Cartier’s most technically refined engines, symbolizes a level of watchmaking that that sits within a class of its own.

You can’t mistake the look of a Calibre de Cartier watch with anything else. Retrograde-style indicators and the oversized Roman numeral at 12 o’clock are design characteristics that have become an iconic look on the wrist. This 300-meter water-resistant Calibre de Cartier watch dominates the wrist with its broad 42mm stainless steel case. An ADLC coated bezel accompanied by a rounded case mirrors the unmistakable look of the cult diving watch. Of course, this collection is also renowned for its beautifully developed in-house movements, so if you share Cartier’s passion for mechanical wristwatches, you’ll appreciate the efforts of the Calibre 1904-MC, which provides a 42-hour power reserve. The Calibre de Cartier is considered by many as the most elegant diving watch ever, but whether you intend to wear it for deepsea exploration or just love its ruggedly handsome aesthetics - features like the small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock and retrograde date display at the third hour certainly won’t let you down.

For more Cartier watches look at our comprehensive guides including luxury Cartier watches or the diamond Cartier and if you are interested in investing we have also a guide for those wondering which Cartier watches will hold their value.