Vacheron Constantin or Cartier? The watchmaker and the jeweller

Vacheron Constantin and Cartier both belong to the Richemont group, and both make beautiful dress watches. But one is a watchmaker first, and the other a jeweller and designer first.

Vacheron Constantin: the watchmaker

Founded in Geneva in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is one of the Holy Trinity of watchmaking. Its appeal lies in its movements, many of which carry the Hallmark of Geneva, and in complicated watches made to the highest standards. Read more about Vacheron Constantin.

Cartier: the jeweller

Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier's genius is design. The Santos, Tank and Panthère defined shapes that are still copied today. Many Cartier watches use quartz movements, while its fine watchmaking pieces are made at its own manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Read more about Cartier watches.

How to choose

• ◆Choose Vacheron Constantin if you care most about the movement, finishing and watchmaking heritage, and want something few people will recognise.
• ◆Choose Cartier if you love design, want a watch that suits every occasion, and like the ease of a quartz movement.
• ◆Or own both: a Cartier Tank and a Vacheron Constantin Patrimony make a very elegant pair.

Browse Vacheron Constantin and Cartier in our shop.