How to Tell if a Cartier Watch Is Real: 11 Key Signs

Want to know if you have a real Cartier watch on your hands? You’ll want to pay attention to a few key areas to spot any possible dupes, such as examining the watch’s case, engravings, dial, and serial number. These defining features can all set an authentic Cartier watch apart from a fake watch.

We identify the 11 key triggers to look for, so you can learn how to tell if a Cartier watch is real when you are shopping for a pre-owned Cartier watch to add to your collection.

Sign #1 of a Real Cartier: Flat Head Screws

On any true Cartier, all screws in the watch case will be flat head screws. Flat head screws are identifiable for featuring one line down the center, rather than two crossed lines in the center of the screw. 

Additionally, all screws will be perfectly flush with the case and always evenly spaced around it, too. These screws may be on the front or on the back, dependent upon the individual model. For example, the Cartier Tank features screws on the back of the case.

In contrast, some of the telltale signs of fake Cartier watches are any that feature no screws at all; if they do, the screws may not be flat head screws or may not be flush with the case. 

Sign #2 of a Genuine Cartier: The Case Back

Cartier case backs generally feature an engraving. It can differ depending on the model, but typically you’ll find a serial number engraved on the case back, the Cartier logo, or some other words regarding the watch’s features. 

The main things to look out for are (1) the engraving is actually there, and (2) the engraving is clearly legible and each letter is formed with precision. A fake Cartier may feature a slightly sloppy engraving.

Sign #3 Your Cartier Watch is Real: Overall Weight

As you inspect a Cartier watch for authenticity, take a moment to simply weigh the timepiece in your hands. A genuine one will have a luxurious, heavy feel. It’ll never feel lightweight. After all, this kind of luxury watch is made with high-quality metals, like real gold and precious gemstones including diamonds. That all adds up to a rather hefty accessory.  

Sign #4 of a Real Cartier: The Dial Signature

A true Cartier watch will most likely feature a small inscription hidden within either the VII or X on the dial. This inscription will simply say “Cartier.” You may additionally find a similar, more easily visible inscription under the VI on the dial that may say “Swiss,” “Swiss Made,” or “Paris.”

Sign #5 of an Authentic Cartier: The Crown Sapphire

If you have a Cartier model that features a sapphire stone on the crown, give it a very close look. A true Cartier timepiece will feature a stone that’s set into the crown. If it appears that the stone is merely resting atop it, that could be a sign that a fake gem was glued onto a counterfeit Cartier.

Sign #6 of True Cartier Watches: Scratch-Resistant Glass

Cartier uses scratch-resistant glass to cover its watch faces for more durability, so if you see any potential scratches or nicks, that could be a sign you have a fake on your hands. Also, any good potential seller will not try to convince you that it’s “just a little damage” and that “they’ll give you a discount.”

Sign #7 of a Real Cartier: The Guilloche Dial

Cartier watches feature intricately decorated dials that blend texture and design for a truly luxurious look. When counterfeiters attempt to recreate these guilloche techniques and designs, they often fall short of Cartier’s well-known adherence to perfection. 

As such, take a look at the guilloche dial on the watch in question to spot any slight imperfections, such as pattern deviations or marks that simply do not look as if they belong on the dial at all. 

Sign #8 of a True Cartier: Luminosity

Many Cartier watches glow in the dark; a true model is made with higher-quality materials that ensure the glow lasts longer and shines brighter than a counterfeit watch. If a seller is passing off a watch’s dimmed glow due to age, it might actually be a fake watch made with lesser-quality materials.

Sign #9 of an Authentic Cartier: High-Quality Swiss Movements

If possible, open the case back of your timepiece and examine the watch movement to ensure that it’s one that Cartier actually uses. For example, Cartier may not always use their own movement, as it only manufactures some of them. Instead, the watch may feature movements crafted by other brands, including Piaget and ETA movements.

Sign #10 of a Real Cartier: The Serial Number

Overall, the best way to guarantee Cartier authenticity is by looking at the serial number engraved on the back of the case, and then calling a Cartier dealer to verify it’s a real one. In addition, the dealer can also give you more information about the watch’s purchase history. 

Sign #11 of an Authentic Cartier: Price

Lastly, think about the price that your watch dealer is willing to sell for. Luxury items like Cartier watches do not come cheaply, even on the secondhand market. You’re never going to be able to find a pre-owned Cartier watch for a few hundred dollars. At the very least, you’ll be paying a few thousand dollars, and it’s not out of the question for some models to go for tens of thousands of dollars.

How to Find Reputable Sellers for Pre-Owned Cartier Watches

If you want to ensure you’re purchasing a truly authentic and new-to-you Cartier watch, work only with sellers who can provide certificates of authenticity and sellers that allow you to take the watch to an authorized dealer for verification. If you’re purchasing the watch from a digital storefront rather than an individual, use every online tool at your disposal. Be sure to research the vendor’s reputation and read up on their reviews.   

Ultimately, a seller should be so confident in their watch’s authenticity that they have no problem with you doing your due diligence to ensure you’re buying the real deal. Any pushback on their end could be a red flag.

Cartier Watch: Real Vs. Fake FAQs

What Are the Most Counterfeited Cartier Watches?

Some of the most often counterfeited Cartier watches include the Cartier Tank, Cartier Santos, and Cartier Ballon Bleu models. 

What Watch Brands Are Most Likely to Be Counterfeit?

Rolex is the watch brand most likely to be counterfeited, but other popular models also have frequent fakes, including Cartier, Omega, and Patek Philippe watches. 

Will People Be Able to Tell if I Wear a Counterfeit Watch?

You may hope that people won’t be able to tell you’re wearing a counterfeit watch, but you’d be wrong, as many most definitely can. Counterfeit watches, even good ones, rarely match up to their high-price authentic versions, as they are plagued with poor craftsmanship, cheap materials, and shortcuts like gold plating that affect every part of the watch, from the bracelet to the bezel. 

How Much Does an Authentic Pre-Owned Cartier Watch Cost?

An authentic pre-owned Cartier watch will cost at least a few thousand dollars, but may cost as much as tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the model.

How Can I Tell if My Cartier Watch Is Real?

Pay attention to the small details that authentic Cartier watches nearly always feature, including flat head screws, engravings on the back of the case, inscriptions on the dial, and a blue stone set into the crown.

Protect Your Authentic Cartier with Luxury Watch Insurance

Once you have your long-awaited authentic Cartier in your hands, make sure that you protect it with comprehensive luxury watch insurance. Having a policy in place can cover the costs of replacement or repair in the event of theft, loss, or damage.

You’ve spent your hard-earned money on this purchase. You’ve done your best to learn how to know if a Cartier watch is real. And you can identify a Cartier watch fake vs. real watches. The only thing left to do is protect it so you can enjoy it for a lifetime.

Get your luxury watch insurance quote from BriteCo now.

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