During the time of the French Revolution, Louis-François Cartier took over his master’s workshop and founded Cartier in 1847. Little did people know that this humble jeweler in Paris would become one of the most coveted brands in the world. As a young apprentice at the age of 29, Louis-François captivated a prestigious clientele by his talent and brilliance in the realm of jewelry.

Cartier’s business grew and expanded with the rise of the Second Empire and opened its first boutique in 1859. Louis-François’s son then took charge of the shop, moving it to Paris’ central jewelry district Rue de la Paix.

Cartier ventured into watches in 1904 when a Brazilian aviator complained about the inconvenience of searching for his pocket watch while flying. Hearing the need, Cartier designed a flat men’s wristwatch with a square bezel, pioneering the Cartier watch line for the next century.

Aside from Cartier’s signature watches, the company is also well known for their high-end and luxurious jewelry. In 1914, the iconic Panthère motif was used for the first time, which eventually became a symbol in Cartier jewelry. In 1924, the brand launched its “Trinity De Cartier” collection. This is still one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry in history. The three rings symbolize the different stages of a relationship – white for friendship, pink for love, and yellow for fidelity. At this point, Cartier had built a reputation as being the most sought after couture jeweler and watchmaker of the affluent.

Rightly deserved, Cartier was named “King of Jewelers” by King Edward VII of the United Kingdom, enchanting the world with its sophisticated designs. It’s striking watches and famed jewelry display boldness and a spirit of innovation which has remained consistent since the company’s inception.