About the Clé de Cartier 40mm
Introduced by Cartier as a bold reimagining of watch architecture, the Clé de Cartier takes its name from the French word for key, a reference to the distinctive winding crown that resembles an antique key and is positioned at nine o'clock rather than the traditional three. The rounded rectangular case with softly curved lugs sits firmly in the French haute horlogerie tradition while appealing to modern tastes, and the 40mm diameter was designed specifically as the men's flagship size within the line. Across the collection, dials range from clean silver indexes to fully diamond-set surfaces, and cases are crafted in either AISI stainless steel or polished 18k rose gold, giving buyers meaningful choice across materials and price points. The movement inside is an automatic manufacture caliber, consistent with Cartier's broader commitment to in-house watchmaking across its key collections.
What to Look For
Buyers comparing references should weigh case material first, as 18k rose gold examples such as WGCL0002 and the diamond-set WJCL0009 command a significant premium over stainless steel references like WSCL0018. Diamond setting, the presence or absence of a date function, and strap configuration, alligator leather versus integrated bracelet, also drive value differences within the 40mm lineup. Condition and the presence of original box and papers are particularly important for Clé de Cartier pieces, as the line is relatively recent and the market expects near-mint examples to carry full documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Clé de Cartier 40mm different from the smaller sizes in the line?
Cartier offers the Clé de Cartier in multiple case sizes, and the 40mm is designated as the primary men's configuration, providing a bolder wrist presence and typically housing a full automatic movement. The smaller sizes in the line are generally positioned for women or those who prefer a more compact watch, so the 40mm references like WSCL0018 and WGCL0002 are the standard choice for men seeking the canonical Clé de Cartier experience.
Are the Clé de Cartier 40mm watches sold at Bizak and Co. brand new?
Yes, the examples listed in this collection, including WJCL0009, WSCL0018, and WGCL0002, are brand new. Each piece is authenticated by Bizak and Co. before listing and is ready to ship, typically accompanied by original Cartier packaging and documentation.
What should I expect to pay more for, the rose gold or the stainless steel Clé de Cartier 40mm?
The 18k rose gold references, particularly diamond-set models like WJCL0009, carry the highest price points in this collection due to the material cost of solid gold and the additional craftsmanship involved in stone setting. The stainless steel WSCL0018 with its silver dial and alligator strap offers the most accessible entry into the 40mm Clé de Cartier lineup while retaining the same distinctive case design and automatic movement.
Browse also: Cartier collection.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
