The European Watch and Clock Company (EWC) was established in the 1920s as a joint venture between Cartier and Edmund Jaeger of Jaeger-LeCoultre, a pioneer in innovative movement manufacturing. While Cartier continued to collaborate with other movement makers, many of its top-tier creations featured EWC movements, produced within the Jaeger-LeCoultre factory in Le Sentier, Switzerland. Few brands evoke the same level of glamour, design innovation, and aristocratic heritage as Cartier. Founded in Paris in 1847, the maison quickly set a benchmark for style and luxury, crafting exquisite jewellery for some of the world’s most prominent clients.

Prior to its partnership with Edmund Jaeger, Cartier sourced movements from leading Geneva watchmakers such as Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. Although these collaborations continued for special commissions and retail pieces, the majority of Cartier’s high-end watches came to feature EWC movements. Manufactured to the highest standards within the Jaeger-LeCoultre facility, these movements earned a reputation for exceptional quality and precision. Today, Cartier watches from the 1930s to the 1950s fitted with EWC movements are highly sought after, regarded as among the most authentic and original examples.

The present example, dating to circa 1930, is powered by an EWC manual movement. The minute repeater functions smoothly, with a clear and elegant chime. Remarkably well-preserved for a watch over 95 years old, it features a mirror-polished yellow gold case with only minor imperfections consistent with its age. Its minimalist design reflects Cartier’s Art Deco aesthetic of the period, making it an ideal acquisition for discerning Cartier collectors.