We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
An elegant choice for a gallery opening or dinner in the city, this vintage Cartier 21 Must de Cartier elevates smart attire with its compact 28mm two-tone case and Roman-numeral bezel. A silver-toned dial with blue steel hands and a blue sapphire cabochon add refined character, while the quartz movement delivers effortless reliability.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Cartier 21 Must de Cartier 28mm Ref 1340? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made quartz wristwatch with a compact 28mm two‑tone case (stainless steel with gold‑plated accents), a fixed bezel engraved with Roman numerals, a silver‑tone dial with blued steel hands, and Cartier’s signature blue sapphire cabochon on the crown. Elegant, reliable, and refined for everyday dress wear.
Q: What movement and battery does it use, and how long will the battery last? A: The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz movement. Many Must 21 models commonly use a 377/SR626SW silver‑oxide cell, but the exact battery can vary—please have a professional confirm before replacement. Typical battery life is about 2–3 years depending on usage and storage.
Q: Is it water‑resistant, and can I swim with it? A: As a vintage watch, water resistance is not guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best and avoid swimming, showering, or submersion. If light moisture resistance is important, have the gaskets inspected and replaced by an authorised watchmaker and always ensure the crown is fully pushed in.
Q: How do I set the time on this model? A: Gently pull the crown out to the setting position and turn it to set the hands; when finished, push the crown back in firmly to help maintain water resistance. The crown features a blue sapphire cabochon—avoid using tools that could chip or scratch it. This 28mm variant typically has no date, so there’s no date‑setting step.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized? A: This piece fits a wrist up to approximately 17cm. The integrated bracelet can be sized by removing or adding links; extra links can sometimes be sourced subject to availability and may incur a fee. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise on sizing options before shipment.
Q: Does the Roman numeral bezel rotate or have a timing function? A: No—the bezel is fixed and decorative, with engraved Roman numerals that frame the dial. It does not rotate and has no timing function.
Q: What crystal does it have, and is it scratch‑resistant? A: Must 21 models from this era often feature a sapphire crystal, though specifics can vary by year and reference. We can confirm the crystal type for this exact watch on request. Sapphire is highly scratch‑resistant; avoid hard knocks and abrasives to prevent chips or damage.
Q: Will the gold‑plated accents wear, and how should I care for the finish? A: Gold‑plated surfaces can show wear on high‑contact areas over time. Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive polishing, harsh chemicals, perfumes, and solvents. Store the watch away from magnets and moisture, and have seals checked periodically to preserve condition.
Q: Can I swap the bracelet for a strap? A: The 21 Must de Cartier has an integrated bracelet design, so standard straps are not directly compatible. Aftermarket conversion options exist but fit and quality vary. If you’re considering a strap change, contact us for advice tailored to this reference.
Q: Is it authentic, what’s included, and do you offer a warranty? A: A Retro Tale thoroughly inspects and authenticates every item. This watch is Swiss‑made and sold with a Cartier service pouch as listed. We provide a 12‑month warranty on the movement; if you need additional documentation, photos, or confirmation of reference/serial details (e.g., Ref 1340), we’re happy to assist.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
1 314 £
46%
off retail price
• Two-tone stainless steel and gold-plated metal
• 28mm case
• Bezel with engraved Roman numerals
• Silver-tone dial with blue steel hands
• Blue sapphire cabochon on crown
• Quartz movement
• Vintage
