Uniqueness, sophistication, and timeless elegance are qualities synonymous with Cartier, a respected name in the world of luxury watchmaking. Cartier’s longstanding legacy lives on in the hearts of collectors who appreciate the intricate craftsmanship that this brand offers. However, with an increase in the luxury watch market – counterfeit watchmakers have also ramped up their operations, which is why it’s crucial to correctly identify a genuine Cartier timepiece from the multitude of fakes on the market.
While it’s essential to consider these factors when identifying a genuine Cartier watch, purchasing your timepiece from an authorised dealer like Kettle Club is the best way to guarantee authenticity and protect your investments.
Price – Too Good to be True?
The saying, “You get what you pay for,” rings true when purchasing a Cartier watch. These watches are high-end luxury items and command a hefty price due to the precision, craftsmanship, and material involved in making them. If you find a Cartier watch being sold at a low price, far lower than its real market value, it’s a solid red flag. Authentic Cartier watches are investments, not basement bargains.
Craftsmanship – Attention to Detail
Cartier’s elegant designs and unrivalled craftsmanship set it leagues apart from others. It’s important to capture this detail for assurance of authenticity. Look for any imperfections or inconsistencies. Genuine Cartier watches are flawless. Engravings are precise; the watch hands should move smoothly, and the Cartier logo will be illustrated finely with no smudges or misalignment.
Logo and Branding
The Cartier logo, including the company name and font used, should be accurately represented on the watch. In most cases, the Cartier name will be engraved on movement parts, on the watch dial, and on the casing’s back. Misrepresentation, even the slightest difference in font style or the wrong usage of capital letters, is a clear indicator of a counterfeit.
Authenticity Markings
All Cartier watches have a series of reference numbers unique to each timepiece, typically etched on the back or side of the watch. These include the “C” from Cartier encased within a circle, the model number, the case metal type, and the four-digit case number, among others. Any discrepancies in these markings should raise a red flag.
Weight and Material
An authentic Cartier watch has a substantial weight to it due to its quality materials and intricate mechanisms. A lightweight watch suggests the use of inferior materials – a common trait in counterfeit products. Furthermore, Cartier only uses high-grade materials like 18K gold, stainless steel, and precious stones. If the material appears faded or cheaply plated, it’s probably not a genuine Cartier watch.
Movement
Cartier uses Automatic, Quartz, and Manual movements for its watches. Understanding the specific movement utilized in the model you’re considering can offer some insight. For instance, if the watch is an automatic model but functions without movement or a battery, it’s a counterfeit.
Packaging and Documentation
Cartier’s presentation is as meticulous as their watches. Authentic Cartier watches come in a red box with “Cartier” embossed in gold on the lid. Inside the box, the watch rests on a white cushion. Proper documentation, including the watch manual and a certificate of authenticity, should be present.
Navigating the world of luxury watches can be daunting. However, it becomes a lot easier once you know what to look for. The best way to avoid falling victim to counterfeit products is to always purchase from established, reputable sources like Kettle Club. To find out more about buying or selling a Cartier watch, get in touch with a member of the team today.