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, formal dinners, or weekend city breaks, this vintage Cartier Cougar 32.5 mm in stainless steel adds understated refinement to any look. Its off-white dial with black Roman numerals and compact profile slip neatly under a cuff, making it an effortless companion 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 model is this and what are its key details? A: It is a Cartier Cougar in stainless steel, reference 987904, with a 32.5 mm case, quartz movement and a crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon. It features an off‑white dial with black Roman numerals and a date display.
Q: What wrist size does it fit and can the bracelet be adjusted? A: It currently fits a wrist up to 17.5 cm. The integrated steel bracelet can be adjusted by adding or removing links; additional links may be required for larger wrists and are subject to availability. We recommend sizing by a competent watchmaker; contact us if you would like help with sizing options.
Q: Is the 32.5 mm size considered unisex? A: Yes. The Cougar’s rounded case and integrated bracelet wear elegantly on many wrist sizes. At 32.5 mm it is often described as a midsize or unisex watch with a compact, comfortable presence.
Q: What movement does it use and how long does the battery last? A: Cougar quartz models of this era typically use a Cartier quartz calibre with date (commonly calibre 687). Average battery life is around 3 years; replace the battery promptly when exhausted to avoid leakage and have the watch resealed and tested during the same visit.
Q: Is it water‑resistant? Can I shower or swim with it? A: When new, many Cougar references were rated around 30 m for everyday splash resistance. As a vintage piece, water resistance cannot be guaranteed. We recommend keeping it away from showers, swimming and saunas, and having gaskets replaced and water resistance checked about every two years and after any battery change.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely on this quartz Cartier? A: Pull the crown gently to the first position to set the date and the second to set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 9 pm and 3 am, as the date mechanism may be engaged. If unsure, move the hands to around 6 o’clock before setting the date. Never force the crown.
Q: What is included with this watch? A: Everything included is listed under the product information on this page. For this example, the listing notes a box. If an item such as papers or spare links is not listed there, it is not included—please ask us if you need clarification.
Q: Has this watch been authenticated and what is its condition? A: Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously authenticated by our in‑house experts using multi‑point checks of materials, finishing, movement and stamps. This piece is described in very good overall condition with light wear and some scratches on the case, case back, bezel and bracelet; please review the detailed photos and condition notes.
Q: When was the Cartier Cougar produced and is it still in production? A: The Cougar was introduced around the late 1980s and produced through the 1990s. It has been discontinued, which makes well‑kept examples popular among vintage Cartier enthusiasts.
Q: Can Cartier still service this model? A: Yes. Cartier and authorised service centres routinely service vintage quartz models, including battery, gasket replacement and water‑resistance testing. They can also perform diagnostics and advise on parts availability for period pieces.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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 case, 32.5 mm
• Off-white dial with black Roman numerals and date display
• Crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon
• Stainless steel link bracelet
• Quartz movement
• Vintage