How to… Wear Your Watch Like a Fashion Editor
Cartier’s iconic Panthère is dressed up in diamonds and bold stripes that reference the maison’s fantastical menagerie
In 1914, an elegant wrist watch came out in spots. Crafted by Cartier, it was the first time the maison had debuted the panther pattern, which was brought to life in diamonds and onyx. Just a few short years later, in 1917, Cartier crafted a chic cigarette case which bore the first figurative panther, and then the first full-bodied, 3D panther came in 1948 – basking upon a yellow gold and emerald brooch. This particular piece was designed for Wallis Simpson, and like most things Wallis sported, it was utterly avant-garde.
Since then, the panther has become the unmistakable mascot of the maison, appearing within fine jewellery and timepiece collections with increasing regularity from the 1950s onwards. Now, the panther motif is synonymous with Cartier’s effortlessly bold design codes – whether swinging from earrings, curling around the finger, or reclining upon the décolletage, Cartier’s big cat has undeniable swagger.
In 1983, the maison translated the panther’s sleek silhouette into an everyday timepiece, designing a collection that would become the mainstay of stylish celebrities and industry tastemakers alike: the Panthère de Cartier. From Rihanna and Zendaya to Brad Pitt and Tom Hardy – 40 years since its launch, the Panthère de Cartier’s fan club reads like a who’s who of the A-list. If there were such thing as an ‘It’ watch, the Panthère de Cartier is the poster child. The secret to its covet factor? An easy breezy blend of contemporary classicism – square dial, roman numerals and, the pièce de résistance, the ultra-lithe bracelet that echoes the liquid-like movement of a panther on the prowl.
The Panthère de Cartier has been reimagined in myriad guises of steel, yellow, white and rose gold over the years, but 2025 marks an entirely new look for the timepiece – the latest model unveiled at this year’s Watches and Wonders proves that a leopard may not be able to change its spots, but a panther certainly can. La Panthère de Cartier has a new, irresistible camouflage brought to life with glittering gemstone stripes. We can’t be sure if they’re inspired by a roaming tiger or a grazing zebra as both are familiar faces in Cartier’s fantastical menagerie, but they’re equally fabulous.
How then, can you work the Panthère’s new coat into your watch wardrobe? Start with similarly quirky and ultraglamorous ready-to-wear and accessories; this is most definitely not the moment to be a wallflower. Pucci’s striped jumpsuit gives Studio 54 vibes in spades, and is calling out for contrasting animal print accents. Mules by Jacquemus will add a dash of snake skin, while JW Pei’s leopard print sequin bag is the ultimate party companion. If the jungle vibes get a little too intense, choose an unexpected hue to serve as a palette cleanser – soft mauve or blossom pink will add a pretty twist. The finishing touch that (just about) manages to match up to the Panthère’s panache? Valentino’s silk turban. Wear it over loose, free-flowing waves – it’s time to go wild.
Images supplied.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia April 2025 Issue.