Inspired by the Wild Animals: Discover Cartier’s Iconic Timepiece Collection

Toussaint elevates the Panthère, a well-known symbol of Cartier during the Art Deco era, by presenting the work in a figurative and sculptural form rather than an abstract or imaginative interpretation of the panther character. Her creative vision transformed Panthère to become an iconic piece for Cartier, still recognized today, and earned her widespread respect, bestowing upon her the moniker “La Panthère” – for her graceful yet fierce personality and unwavering determination, similar to the panther’s special power.

The Belgian-born French jeweller and fashion designer possessed an exceptional aptitude for style and consistently remained at the forefront of trends, anticipating the preferences of the social elite even before they became aware of them. Her fascination with panthers, which she had witnessed during a safari in the African wilderness, endured long after the trip had concluded.

In the early 1940s, Toussaint boldly guided the Cartier jewelry catalog away from the prevalent Art Deco style and towards sculptural, three-dimensional forms which took her panther designs to new heights. This was a big step from all the panther creations produced prior to that point. The initial pieces, a jewelry wristwatch from 1914 and an exquisite chatelaine watch from 1915, were both meticulously crafted with a panther-inspired pattern crafted from onyx and pavé diamonds. Notably, the first Cartier object to prominently feature the panther in its entirety was not a jewelry piece, but an invitation card designed by the renowned French illustrator George Barbier. This card depicted a dashing black panther alongside a woman elegantly dressed in a Poiret gown, adorned with ropes of pearls.

The Crocodile Jewelry Watches will feature three distinct models, each will incorporate the body and head of a crocodile into the case, encasing the round watch dial. Offered in three white gold versions, each set with a unique gemstone colorway, the Crocodile is a sculpted creature whose head and body encircle the case, commencing at 10:00 and concluding with the tail swooping onto the dial at 7:00. The space between 7:00 and 10:00 is entirely gem-set to harmonize with the gem-set dial.

Crafted in 18-karat gold, the panther is adorned with diamonds, while the crocodile is encrusted with diamonds and emeralds, capturing the essence of its surroundings. The tiger is set with spinels, spessartite, garnets, and yellow and orange sapphires, complemented by a black lacquer nose that accurately replicates the distinctive stripes of the elusive feline.