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
Elevate business meetings and evening engagements with this vintage Cartier 21 Must de Cartier. Its refined 31mm two‑tone steel and gold‑plated profile, white dial and Roman‑numeral bezel lend timeless polish to tailored suits and cocktail attire, while the dependable quartz movement keeps impeccable time from desk to dinner.
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 Ref. 1330 (c. 1995)? A: It is a mid-size, two-tone Cartier wristwatch with a 31mm round stainless-steel case, gold-plated accents, a white dial with Roman numeral bezel, and Cartier’s signature blue cabochon crown. It is powered by a Swiss quartz movement for reliable, low‑maintenance timekeeping.
Q: Is this model quartz or automatic, and which calibre does it use? A: It is a quartz watch. Period examples of the Ref. 1330 typically use Cartier’s 90‑series quartz movement (often noted as Cal. 90.06) and some later/service pieces may feature the related Cal. 690 family. Both are Swiss quartz movements designed for accuracy and everyday convenience.
Q: Are the gold elements solid gold? A: No. On the Must de Cartier 21, the gold-tone details are gold‑plated over stainless steel rather than solid 18‑carat gold. This contributes to the model’s distinctive two‑tone look while keeping it robust for daily wear.
Q: What are the size and fit like? A: The case measures 31mm and wears elegantly as a unisex, mid‑size watch. This specific piece is sized to fit a wrist of up to 17cm and comes with 2 extra links for minor extension. The integrated two‑tone bracelet can also be sized down by removing links for a tailored fit.
Q: Is it water‑resistant? A: When new, the Must 21 line was typically rated to 30 metres. As this is a vintage watch from circa 1995, we do not guarantee water resistance without a current pressure test. Please treat it as splash‑resistant only and avoid swimming, showering, or submersion.
Q: What kind of crystal does it have? A: Many 1990s Must 21 examples were fitted with scratch‑resistant sapphire crystals, though some sub‑references and production runs are known with mineral glass. Given this variance across the period, we describe the crystal as scratch‑resistant and recommend normal care to avoid impacts.
Q: How long does the battery last and how should it be replaced? A: Typical silver‑oxide watch batteries last around 2–3 years in these Cartier quartz movements. We recommend professional replacement to ensure the gaskets are checked and the case is properly re‑sealed at the same time.
Q: How do I set the time? A: Gently pull the crown out to the hand‑setting position, rotate to set the hands to the correct time, then push the crown back in firmly. Avoid operating the crown under water and keep the watch away from strong magnetic fields for best accuracy.
Q: What is the condition of this particular watch? A: It is graded Very Good overall, showing light traces of use appropriate for its age. There are surface scratches on the case, case back and bracelet, but the watch remains clean and presentable with strong vintage character.
Q: What is included, and do you offer a warranty? A: This listing includes the watch, a box, and 2 extra bracelet links. As with all our items, A Retro Tale guarantees authenticity and provides a 12‑month movement warranty, plus secure, insured shipping and a 14‑day return policy for peace of mind.
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
/ Mens watches
• Stainless steel and gold-plated hardware
• Bezel with engraved Roman numerals
• White dial
• Blue sapphire cabochon on the crown
• Two-tone link bracelet
• Quartz movement
• Vintage
