Patek or Cartier - A well-timed decision?

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Miss Sooky

Miss Sooky

O.G.
Oct 22, 2006
3,190
4
#1
I am on the verge of buying a significant watch following an inheritance. I have always, but always, adored the Patek 24 range, in particular the white gold with black face and diamond markers. However, I also love both the Americaine and Francaise Cartier Tanks. I am so torn. My criteria are:

a) understated elegance - nothing too bling or with masses of diamonds
b) a classic that will endure long after I have ceased to exist!

I would welcome everyone's thoughts, but especially those who own one of the models on my short list.
 
#2
I have a Patek 24, rose gold with chocolate face, and I adore it! it really is an everyday watch, for me at least. Patek is one of the leading watch brands in the world, and will always be so. For me, Cartier is a designer brand, not in the same category as Patek. I think if you speak with watch collectors, you will hear the same,
 
#3
That is really helpful to hear. I am leaning strongly towards the Patek 24, but I would definitely want to wear it rather than be afraid and just stroke it occasionally! It is really good to hear from someone who has the Patek as an everyday choice. I'd love to hear what others have to say too.
 
#4
I will never have the funds to afford a Patek, but given your choices, that is the way I would go. Cartier is very nice but it still isn't Patek P.

That is a classic brand, it's been around for a very long time and is very recognized for its history. I agree with Porschegirl, it is in a league of its own. Very old Pateks command very high prices still. Let us know what you choose and please post pics!
 
#5
I could have bought a Patek, but I still chose Cartier (personal reasons). Go for what you love most and not for "investment" or preservation of value. Luxury goods are more for pleasure and sentimentality than any other factor IMO. Men's PPs with complications retain the most value in the market, but are they what you really what? Women's PPs, nor any other ladies' watch including diamond ones, don't really retain too much value according to a watch reseller I talk to.
 
#7
The larger size Patek 24 has nice width to it, so it can be either casual or dressy. The Cartier tanks are smaller and dressier. The 24 is also less common and recognizable than Cartier. Since you're looking at the white gold, you might want to consider the stainless steel 24 instead. It costs a lot less, is more durable and looks almost the same as the white gold, except that it has one row of diamonds instead of two. Let us know what you decide!
 
#15
very difficult choice indeed:

i have bought cartier (tank and roadster) before i bought the Patek Patek 24) just because cartier for me was more affordable (my first designer watches).

at earlier age, cartier was more of my lifestyle; i am more of a jean girl. but as i age, patek became a watch for me that i can wear to dressy events where my cartier couldnt.

good luck on your choice and you cant go wrong with either one!
 
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