The ultimate top 5 Cartier men’s watches for 2025
Cartier was established in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier as a fine jewellery house. Cartier mens watches soon became a symbol of understated elegance and for over a century Cartier watches have been worn by royals, artists, and tastemakers across the globe. From Prince William and Andy Warhol, to Rami Malik, so many famous style icons have chosen to wear a Cartier luxury watch. King Edward VII called Cartier “the jeweller of kings,” commissioning many pieces throughout his reign.
So when it comes to men’s designer luxury watches, few names carry the same caché of prestige, design heritage, and cultural relevance as Cartier. The House of Cartier may be known to the broader public for its jewellery, but in the horological world, it commands serious respect – especially when it comes to Cartier luxury men’s watches.
Whether you’re chasing the elegance of a Cartier Tank, the aviation swagger of a Cartier Santos, or the rounded allure of the Ballon Bleu, there’s a Cartier for every wrist and for every man. And in 2025, the lineup is looking stronger than ever.
This guide reviews the top 5 Cartier mens watches worth your attention this year. From modern style to timeless art deco lines, these luxury timepieces don’t just tell time – they make a serious statement about the wearer.
Cartier Tank Must (Extra Large Model)
Launched in 1917, inspired by the design of WWI Renault tanks, the Cartier Tank became an enduring icon, blending sleek geometry with timeless elegance. Over a century later the Cartier Tank remains one of Cartier’s most famous models.
Here we’re showcasing the Cartier Tank Must, Extra Large Model. It’s long been a favourite for Cartier fans and wearers alike and it has become an an absolute classic luxury men’s watch.
- Case size: 41mm x 31mm
- Thickness: 8.4 mm
- Movement: Mechanical movement with automatic winding
- Strap: Black grained calfskin strap
- Price: £4,800
- Why it’s a 10to2 favourite: The Cartier Tank Must is as close to the original Tank Louis as you’ll get under £5k. It wears incredibly well and represents everything iconic about Cartier, blending symmetry, design style and exuding class.
A fantastic option for first-time buyers looking for a Cartier men’s luxury watch, merging classic design credentials with Cartier’s wonderful heritage.
Santos de Cartier (Medium Model)
The Santos was launched by Cartier in 1904. The Cartier Santos was developed for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who needed a practical alternative to a pocket watch while flying. This watch holds the title of the first men’s wristwatch ever made (no big thing then!) and the emergence of the Cartier Santos helped popularize the concept of a wristwatch for men. Boy, and how well it has stood the test of time!
- Case size: 35.1mm
- Thickness: 8.83 mm
- Movement: Cartier mechanical movement with automatic winding 1847 MC
- Bracelet: Interchangeable steel bracelet and alligator skin strap (with QuickSwitch system to change straps seamlessly)
- Price: £6,950
- Why it’s a 10to2 favourite: The Santos de Cartier is effortlessly versatile. The QuickSwitch bracelet system is a dream for strap-swappers, and the visible screws give it that utilitarian edge – great design piece. The Cartier Santos is a versatile luxury men’s watch, wearing beautifully with a suit and even better with a polo shirt.
The Santos de Cartier is also one of the most sought-after Cartier men’s luxury watches. Across the UK waiting lists can be long, so move fast if you spot one at an authorised Cartier dealer.
Ballon Bleu de Cartier, 40mm Automatic
Soft, spherical, and smooth as silk, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier is a masterclass in contemporary elegance. Worn by the likes of Prince William, it’s a modern Cartier flagship with proper watchmaking chops.
- Case size: 40mm
- Thickness: 12.4mm
- Movement: Mechanical movement with automatic winding, calibre 1847 MC
- Features: Fluted crown set with a sapphire cabochon, dark grey sunray-brushed dial
- Price: £15,800
- Strap: Interchangeable grey alligator-skin strap
- Why it’s a 10to2 favourite: That crown guard cutout is signature Cartier design mastery, and the polished pebble shape is deceptively dressy. One of the best all-rounders in the Cartier lineup.
Whether you’re pairing it with formalwear or dressing up casual looks, this Cartier luxury men’s watch nails refined masculinity.
Cartier Tank Louis, large, manual wind
The godfather of them all. The Cartier Tank Louis is a bona fide design icon – worn by everyone from JFK to Andy Warhol. My favourite Cartier Tank Louis is the yellow gold case, with the green lacquer-effect dial. In 2025, the Cartier Tank Louis remains the purest expression of Cartier’s art deco lineage.
- Case size: 33.7mm x 25.5mm
- Thickness: 6.6mm
- Movement: Mechanical movement with manual winding
- Strap: Semi-matte green alligator-skin strap
- Price: £12,500
- Why it’s a top pick for 10to2: This isn’t just a Cartier Tank – it’s the Tank of the Cartier Tanks! Slim, dressy, and steeped in cultural gravitas. If you’re after a modern men’s vintage Cartier watch with collector credibility, this is just the watch for you.
What makes the Cartier Tank Louis unique and classy is its century-old design purity, it’s association with elegance and cultural icons, and Cartier’s mastery of turning simplicity into timeless luxury. Worn by style and cultural icons like Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, Andy Warhol confirm it as a symbol of timeless sophistication.
Cartier Tank Américaine, large model
The Cartier Tank Américane was launched in 1987 as a modern, bolder extension of the classic Cartier Tank. The “Américaine” name references both the larger scale model (everything is bigger in America..!!) and Cartier’s historical ties to notable U.S. clients.
- Case size: 44.4 mm x 24.4 mm
- Thickness: 8.6 mm
- Movement: Mechanical movement with automatic winding
- Strap: Semi-matte navy blue alligator leather strap
- Price: £16,100
- Why it’s a winner for 10to2: The Large Tank Américaine blends bold geometry with subtle craftsmanship – from its refined profile to its ergonomic design. It’s a watch that feels significant without being bulky and looks effortlessly elegant with a modern edge.
The Cartier Tank Américaine is a perfect blend of Parisian chic and Wall Street sharp. It compliments outfits from blazer and jeans to business suits and tuxedos. The Cartier Tank Américaine provides a sharp, crisp, confident look for any wearer fortunate to own one – I’d certainly have it on my wrist at the next 10to2 Summer Ball.
Do Cartier mens watches hold their value?
It’s the question we all end up asking – do Cartier mens watches hold their value? The short answer is yes, but it very much depends on the model.
Cartier has seen a steady resurgence over recent years, and the popularity of pieces like the Cartier Tank Must, Cartier Santos, and limited-run Cartier bracelet models have driven demand sharply. While not quite at Rolex or Audemars Piguet levels, Cartier watches retain excellent resale value – particularly for steel sports models and vintage editions.
Plus, with Cartier’s current strategy of limited supply, timeless design, and strong branding, they’re increasingly seen as investment-grade watches – especially among younger buyers.
Final thoughts – Why Cartier remains king of cool
In a world awash with oversized tool watches and tactical dive gear, Cartier remain a very refreshing, bold and unique choice of luxury men’s watch. Cartier mens watches ooze elegance, proportion, and subtlety – Cartier also provides over a century of horological pedigree and authenticity.
Whether you’re new to the Cartier brand or returning to purchase an old flame, 2025’s Cartier Men’s Watch lineup has something for everyone. The Cartier Tank Must, Ballon Bleu, and Santos-Dumont models all offer distinct personalities, while staying chic and unmistakably Cartier.
Out of all these Cartier mens watches, my favourite is the 40mm Ballon Bleu de Cartier on a Rose Gold case. Not only does it look incredibly chic and unique, but it also sounds so cool, classy and full of je ne sais quois ..!!
