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 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 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.
Perfect for boardroom meetings, elegant dinners and weekend city strolls, this vintage Cartier 21 Must de Cartier (35mm) lends refined polish to both tailored and smart-casual looks. Its steel-and-gold aesthetic and Roman-numeral bezel deliver understated luxury, making it an effortless companion from day to night.
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 case size and how does it fit on the wrist? A: This example is the 35 mm Must de Cartier 21 and is currently sized to fit a wrist up to 17 cm. The integrated bracelet gives a sleek, wrist‑hugging profile and the size is considered unisex for most wearers.
Q: What movement does it use and how long does the battery last? A: It runs on a Swiss quartz movement. Typical battery life is around 3 years, but usage and age can vary this. Many quartz movements display an end‑of‑life indicator where the seconds hand jumps several seconds at a time, signalling it is time for a battery change. We recommend professional replacement to preserve water‑resistance seals.
Q: Is this watch water‑resistant—can I swim or shower with it? A: When new, many Must 21 models were rated to 30 metres, suitable for light splashes only. As this is a vintage piece from 2000, water resistance is not guaranteed. Avoid swimming, showering or submersion unless the watch has been pressure‑tested and re‑sealed by a professional, and have seals checked regularly if exposed to moisture.
Q: What are the key materials and design details? A: Stainless steel with gold‑plated highlights, an engraved Roman‑numeral bezel, white dial with date, and Cartier’s signature blue cabochon crown. The line commonly features a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal for clear legibility and durability.
Q: Can the bracelet be resized or extended? A: Yes. Links can be removed or added by a competent watchmaker. This piece is set to 17 cm; additional links are not included in the listing, but vintage links may be sourced by specialists. Please check the current wrist size noted here before purchase.
Q: What does reference 9011 mean? A: 9011 is the Cartier model reference for this Must de Cartier 21 variant with date in the steel/gold two‑tone design. It helps identify case/dial configuration and size within the Must 21 family.
Q: What is included with this watch? A: Everything included is listed under product information. If an item such as a box, papers or spare links is not shown there, it is not included. You are welcome to contact us for clarification.
Q: How should I care for the gold‑plated areas and bracelet? A: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wear. Avoid abrasive polishing, ultrasonic cleaners, and direct contact with perfumes, lotions or chemicals, which can accelerate wear of plating. Store the watch dry and away from magnets; schedule battery service and seal checks as needed.
Q: Is this a men’s or women’s model? A: The 35 mm Must 21 is widely considered unisex. On smaller wrists it has a confident presence; on larger wrists it wears elegantly due to the slim case and integrated bracelet.
Q: How do you authenticate this watch? A: Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes multi‑point authentication by our in‑house experts, examining case and bracelet construction, dial and printing, movement, engravings, reference/serial, and period‑correct components. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and can share further product information on request.
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 offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
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.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
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.
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.
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.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
• Stainless steel and gold-plated hardware
• Bezel with engraved Roman numerals
• White dial with date display
• Blue sapphire cabochon crown
• Vintage
