The 8 Most Expensive Cartier Watches
Explore the pinnacle of luxury as we reveal the 8 most expensive Cartier watches, featuring stunning craftsmanship and history.
Cartier, a name synonymous with luxury and sophistication, has long been a dominant force in the world of haute horology. Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the brand quickly gained a reputation for its impeccable craftsmanship, elegant designs, and innovative watchmaking. Over the years, Cartier has created some of the most iconic timepieces in history, with many fetching record-breaking prices at auctions. These watches, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike, not only serve as functional timepieces but also as works of art, embodying Cartier’s legacy of refinement and excellence. Below, we explore eight of the most expensive Cartier watches sold at auction since 2021.
Most Expensive Cartier Watches
| Rank | Model | Notable Features | Price (USD) |
| 1 | Cartier 'Cheich' Montre Bracelet | Awarded to Dakar Rally champion Gaston Rahier; only one known example | $1,000,000 |
| 2 | Cartier Crash 18k Yellow Gold Circa 1970 | First-series Crash; fewer than a dozen made | $860,000 |
| 3 | Cartier Crash Yellow Gold Circa 1989 | Sharp-edged London design by Arthur Withers; distinctive “JC” mark | $750,000 |
| 4 | Cartier Crash Pink Gold Circa 1994 (Hong Kong Edition) | Limited edition; rare burgundy numerals; case no. “1994 37" | $390,000 |
| 5 | Cartier Panthère Reference 315AF Circa 2011 | White gold bangle set with diamonds, sapphires & emeralds | $355,000 |
| 6 | Cartier Tank Cintrée Yellow Gold Circa 1975 | Elongated case with distinctive Roman numerals and no minute track | $335,000 |
| 7 | Cartier Crash Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1991 | Limited to 400 pieces; engraved “Paris” dial | $242,000 |
| 8 | Cartier Crash Paris Yellow Gold Circa 1991 | Asymmetrical design inspired by the 1960s art movement | $227,000 |
Cartier Cheich Montre Bracelet in Yellow Gold Circa 1983, $1.1 million
This Cartier Cheich Montre Yellow Gold Circa 1983 sold for $1.1 million in September 2022. This mechanical wristwatch, fashioned from yellow gold, represents a rare blend of aesthetic mastery and symbolic significance. Originally awarded to Belgian motorcycle racer Gaston Rahier for his back-to-back victories in the Paris-Dakar Rally, this timepiece is not just a watch—it is a trophy, a piece of history. Its debut at auction was highly anticipated, and its final selling price reflected its rarity and desirability among collectors. The Cartier Cheich is a testament to the brand’s ability to create watches that transcend mere functionality and become symbols of achievement and prestige.
Cartier Crash 18K Yellow Gold Circa 1970, $860,000
One of Cartier’s most avant-garde designs, the Cartier Crash in 18K yellow gold, sold for $860,000 in November 2021. Conceived under Jacques Cartier’s creative direction at the London workshop, the Crash defied traditional watch aesthetics with its surreal, melted appearance. Inspired by the artistic movements of the era, the design evokes comparisons to Salvador Dalí’s surrealist paintings. The 1970 model, part of the first production series, is believed to be one of fewer than a dozen ever made, making it an extraordinary collector’s item. Its rarity and bold design cement its status as one of Cartier’s most sought-after creations.
Cartier Crash in Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1989, $750,000
This Cartier Crash Yellow Gold Circa 1989 sold for $750,000 in November 2022. Designed by Arthur Withers in London, this model features sharper edges and a distinct ‘JC’ mark, further enhancing its appeal. Unlike its predecessor, this iteration of the Crash presents subtle refinements while maintaining its signature asymmetry. Collectors are drawn to its distinctive design and the mystique surrounding its production, making it a highly desirable piece in the world of luxury watches.
Cartier Crash Pink Gold Circa 1994, $390,000 USD
This Cartier Crash Pink Gold Circa 1994 (Hong Kong Edition) sold for $390,000 in October 2025.
An icon of radical design from the swinging sixties, the Cartier Crash remains one of the most recognizable and coveted timepieces ever produced. The present example, crafted in pink gold for the Hong Kong market in 1994, is among the rarest of its kind. Its elegantly distorted case is paired with deep burgundy-painted Roman numerals, a striking complement to the warm tones of the metal.
Engraved “1994 37” on the case back, this piece is the 37th made that year and has been gorgeously preserved by its original owner. The model’s distinctive form traces its origins to a sketch by Jean-Jacques Cartier and artisan Rupert Emmerson — a collaboration later chronicled in The Cartiers by Francesca Cartier Brickell. Combining artistic legend with technical finesse, this limited edition stands as a rare opportunity for collectors seeking the most sculptural expression of Cartier design.
Cartier Panthére Reference 315AF Circa 2011, $355,000
This Cartier Panthére Reference 315AF Circa 2011 sold for $355,000 in April 2022. Crafted in white gold and encrusted with diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds, this bangle watch is both a timepiece and a dazzling work of jewelry. The panther, a longstanding symbol of Cartier, is exquisitely rendered in a pavé setting, capturing the feline’s grace and power. This watch embodies Cartier’s ability to merge high jewelry with masterful watchmaking, making it a standout piece in the brand’s storied history.
Cartier Tank Cintrée Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1975, $335,000
This Cartier Tank Cintrée Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1975 sold for $335,000 in November 2021. Known for its elongated, ergonomic case and distinctive Roman numerals, the Tank Cintrée seamlessly blends function with artistry. This particular model, produced in London, features unique design elements, such as the absence of a traditional railroad minute track, adding to its uniqueness. Its combination of comfort, elegance, and historical significance makes it one of Cartier’s most celebrated timepieces.
Cartier Crash Paris Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1991, $242,000
This Cartier Crash Paris Yellow Gold Circa 1991 sold for $242,000 in November 2022. With only 400 models produced, this watch remains one of Cartier’s most exclusive and highly sought-after pieces. Its distinctive form and rarity contribute to its enduring appeal, ensuring its place in the pantheon of Cartier’s most celebrated creations.
Cartier Crash, Limited Edition in Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1991, $227,000
This limited edition Cartier Crash Yellow Gold Wristwatch Circa 1991 sold for $227,000 in April 2022. Inspired by the free-spirited ethos of the 1960s, this asymmetrical, avant-garde timepiece remains a symbol of artistic rebellion and innovation. Designed by Jean-Jacques Cartier and his team, the watch features responsive, distorted numerals that mirror its unconventional shape. Its limited production run and rich historical ties make it a prized acquisition among collectors
Frequently Asked Questions About Cartier Watches
Why are Cartier watches so expensive?
Cartier watches command premium prices because of their exceptional craftsmanship and limited production. Most models feature precious metals and complex cases made in Cartier’s Swiss workshops, ensuring lasting value and strong auction results.
Why are some Cartier watches so collectible?
Certain models—such as the Crash, Tank Cintrée, and Cheich—are especially prized for their rarity, history, and distinctive design. Their limited production and enduring association with artistic creativity make them some of the most sought-after watches ever produced by Cartier.
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