Vintage Must de Cartier Vendome Quartz, “Onyx” Style Black Dial, Swiss Made Unisex Watch

This vintage Must de Cartier Vendôme is a refined and well-balanced example of Cartier’s dress watches from the late 1970s and 1980s. The watch features a slim 30mm round case with smooth, flowing lines and discreet lugs, giving it a classic and understated presence on the wrist. The deep black dial is intentionally simple, with gold-tone hands and the familiar must de Cartier signature.

The Vendôme model takes its name from Place Vendôme in Paris, home to Cartier’s historic flagship boutique. Its round case design was inspired by the proportions of the Vendôme column and offered a softer alternative to Cartier’s more angular models such as the Tank or Santos. The Must de Cartier line was created to make authentic Cartier watches more accessible, using quartz movements and gold-plated silver cases while keeping the brand’s design language intact.

Completing the look is Cartier’s signature crown in gold, set with a blue cabochon, a detail long associated with the brand and instantly recognizable.

This piece reflects Cartier’s focus on clean design and everyday wearability, making it a versatile vintage watch that fits easily into both formal and casual settings.

CASE:
30mm diameter
Round Vendôme-style case
Gold-plated silver case (vermeil)
Crown: Cartier gold crown with blue cabochon

MOVEMENT:
Quartz movement

DIAL:
Black dial
Gold-tone hands
Must de Cartier signature

Curious about the differences between gold, gold-plated, gold-filled, and gold-capped watches?

Read our guide: What’s the Real Difference — Gold, Gold-Plated, Gold-Filled, or Gold-Capped Watches