When thinking about fine jewelry, Cartier consistently distinguishes itself with its classically elegant and intricately designed pieces. However, potential buyers of Cartier often wonder: Is the cost of Cartier lower in Europe?
In this article, we will dive deep into the latest news on this topic and explore whether the home of the City of Lights offers better deals for Cartier enthusiasts.
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- Made in Switzerland
- Timeless, classy watch
- 7-sided crown
- Mechanical movement
- Automatic winding
- Sapphire crystal
- Water-resistant
Cartier in Europe: History and Connection to Paris
Today, as I was browsing the Cartier catalog, I wondered if there were more affordable places to buy its products. For instance, is it cheaper to buy Cartier in Paris? How much would the difference be if it were?
The US prices seemed over the top. And so I went on a manhunt to see if other countries sold Cartier items for less!
A Brief Background Look at Cartier
My search began with Cartier’s beginnings. I wanted to see if it was cheaper to buy it from its origin, and I fell into the rabbit hole of Cartier’s colorful history.
I discovered that in 1847, Louis-François Cartier inherited his master’s workshop at 29 Rue Montorgueil in Paris.
Only ten years later, Princess Mathilde, the cousin of Emperor Napoleon III, buys one of Cartier’s creations. This event made the brand famous in high Parisian society, and the Maison quickly spread worldwide.
It’s amazing to think that we can buy items that royalty wore!
Cartier Today
Did you know Cartier has over 200 boutiques across 60 countries today? The product line expanded from watches to beautiful jewelry, bags, and perfumes.
Of course, it’s understandable that due to its heritage, the prices of Cartier products aren’t cheap. However, some countries sell them at more affordable rates!
Boutique Locations and Atmosphere
Cartier’s six-story Paris flagship store has been a fixture at the 13 Rue de la Paix location for nearly 125 years. The iconic building recently underwent a significant renovation, breathing new life into the space. The brand’s commitment to Paris does not end there, as other lavish boutiques can also be found throughout the city, including:
- 3 Place Vendôme
- 51 Avenue Montaigne
- 27 Rue de Castiglione
Each boutique has a unique atmosphere reflecting Cartier’s sophisticated aesthetic and commitment to excellence. With elegant interiors and an inviting ambiance, these locations provide a luxurious backdrop for the brand’s timeless creations.
Art and Paris: Cartier’s Inspiration
Paris’s artistic heritage continues to influence Cartier’s designs today. The city’s art, architecture, and vibrant cultural scene have inspired collections such as the Paris Nouvelle Vague, which pays tribute to Parisian women and their style, and the high jewelry collection L’Heure Envoûtée de Cartier, which evokes the enchanted hours spent in the city’s secret gardens.
Is Cartier Cheaper in Europe? Price Differences and Reasons
Yes, during my research, I did find that most European countries sell at much lower prices than American stores.
However, it’s not true for all items. There are differences depending on location and product type.
What Is the Cheapest Country to Buy Cartier Watch?
I compared the best cartier watches prices in some European countries to the US rates.
Here’s a look at the rates for the Santos de Cartier, a watch created in 1904 in Paris, France.
| Country | Price VAT Ex | USD Conversion as of October 2023 |
| USA | $68,000 | $68,000 |
| France | €58,800 | $62,222 |
| Malta | €53,710 | $56,836 |
| Italy | €58,110 | $61,493 |
| Switzerland | CHF 60,457 | $67,189 |
Based on these prices, the Santos de Cartier is cheaper in France than in the United States by $5,778 VAT Ex.
Yet, the cheapest place to buy the watch is in the small European country, Malta! Do note that taxes can change the prices depending on your location.
What Is the Cheapest Country to Buy Cartier Love Bracelet?
Below are the price comparisons for countries that sell the Cartier White Gold Love Bracelet with diamonds.
| Country | Price VAT Ex | USD Conversion as of October 2023 |
| USA | $62,000 | $62,000 |
| France | €53,600 | $56,761 |
| Malta | €54,120 | $57,311 |
| Italy | €53,040 | $56,158 |
| Switzerland | CHF 54,919 | $61,020 |
As you can see, the price of the Cartier Love Bracelet is lower in all European countries than in the United States. Moreover, Italy has the cheapest price.
What Is the Cheapest Country to Buy a Cartier Card Holder?
Let’s now look at the prices of one of Cartier’s affordable items. Here is a comparison of the new Panthère de Cartier card holder.
| Country | Price VAT Ex | USD Conversion as of October 2023 |
| USA | $325 | $325 |
| France | €264 | $280 |
| Malta | €267 | $283 |
| Italy | €265 | $281 |
| Switzerland | CHF 272 | $302 |
Again, if you exclude taxes, the prices in all European countries are cheaper in the United States. This time, France sells the cheapest Panthère de Cartier card holder.
Summary of the Cartier Europe Prices
Are the Cartier Europe prices lower than in the United States? Factors like item type, taxes, and location may affect the price.
Based on the samples we made above, Cartier is cheaper in Europe than in the United States if you exclude VAT. Some of the most expensive items can even have thousands of dollars in difference!
This shows that it’s worth visiting Europe if you buy the high-end pieces from Cartier.
Tax Refunds and Saving Opportunities
VAT Tax Refund
One of the key reasons Cartier is cheaper in Europe, particularly Paris, is the VAT tax refund available to tourists. You are eligible for a tax refund when you spend over 100.01 Euros. In Paris, the tax refund on luxury jewelry, such as Cartier, amounts to 12% off.
To benefit from this, Cartier stores will process the tax forms for you, and you’ll need to submit them at the airport upon departure. The refund you’ll receive isn’t the full 20% VAT, but rather the 12% after accounting for processing fees.
Shopping Experience in Paris
Paris, known for its elegance and luxury, offers a unique shopping experience for those looking to explore top brands and indulge in exquisite purchases.
Avenue des Champs-Élysées
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a famous and iconic Parisian avenue lined with world-renowned luxury brands, flagship stores, and entertainment venues. Here, shoppers can find flagship stores of major luxury brands, including Cartier. It’s the perfect place to indulge in designer pieces and invest in exquisite jewelry, as the prices are lower in Europe than in other regions. The shopping experience is further enhanced by the ongoing renovations and beautification projects that maintain the avenue’s allure.
Rue de Passy
Rue de Passy offers a more serene shopping experience with high-end and affordable brands. This bustling street in the 16th arrondissement is home to various shops, including clothing, accessories, and homeware stores.
Rue de Passy is known for its fantastic investment opportunities in luxurious real estate. Shoppers spending more than 100 Euros are eligible for a 12% VAT refund, making it a perfect spot for those looking to invest in designer items at a more affordable price.
Rue Saint Honoré
Rue Saint Honoré is a prestigious shopping street known for its luxury fashion houses and exclusive boutiques. This street houses several flagship stores, offering a more intimate shopping experience than the bustling Champs-Élysées. Rue Saint Honoré offers high-end shopping experiences for those looking to splurge on the latest design trends.
In summary, Paris provides a variety of shopping experiences, with luxurious streets such as Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Rue de Passy, and Rue Saint Honoré. These locations are perfect for investing in designer brands like Cartier while enjoying more affordable prices and potential tax refunds for eligible purchases. Happy shopping!
FAQ:
Why is Cartier so expensive?
Cartier is expensive due to its high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and reputation as a luxury brand. The brand uses precious metals and stones, such as platinum, gold, diamonds, and sapphires, and employs skilled artisans to create its intricate designs. The brand’s exclusivity and heritage also add to its value.
Why is Cartier so prestigious?
Cartier is prestigious due to its history of creating exquisite jewelry and watches for royalty and celebrities, its use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and its iconic designs, such as the Love bracelet and the Tank watch. The brand’s exclusivity and reputation for luxury also contribute to its prestige.
Is Cartier cheaper in Germany?
Cartier prices in Germany are generally the same as in other countries, with prices varying depending on the style and size of the item. However, prices can also vary depending on the exchange rate, import taxes, supply chains, transportation costs, VAT refunds, and currency conversion.
Is it cheaper to buy Cartier at airport?
Cartier prices at airports are generally the same as in other locations, with prices varying depending on the style and size of the item. However, some airports offer tax-free shopping for international travelers, which can make the purchase slightly cheaper.
Can you wear Cartier Love bracelet through airport security?
Yes, you can wear a Cartier Love bracelet through airport security. The bracelet does not need to be removed but may set off the metal detector. If it does, you can inform the security officer that the bracelet does not come off and request a private screening.
Is Cartier a good investment?
Cartier can be a good investment if you purchase a timeless piece, such as a classic watch or a signature piece of jewelry, and take care of it. However, the value of Cartier items can fluctuate depending on market demand, condition, and rarity.
Can I wear my Cartier Love ring everyday?
Yes, you can wear your Cartier Love ring every day. The ring is durable and designed to be worn daily, but it is recommended to remove it before performing any activities that may damage the ring or harm the wearer, such as swimming or exercising.
Is Cartier Cheaper in France?
Yes, Cartier is cheaper in France than in the United States. As the country of origin of the brand, it makes sense that it sells certain items for less.u003cbru003eThe Charles-de-Gaulle airport in France has many u003ca href=u0022https://stores.cartier.com/france/roissy-en-france/charles-de-gaulle,-porte-k-terminal-2eu0022u003eCartier boutiquesu003c/au003e that carry watches, perfumes, and jewelry. Buying from the airport gives you the advantage of finding duty-free items.
Is Cartier Cheaper in Paris?
Some of Cartier’s items are the cheapest in Italy. For Instance, the Cartier Love Bracelet, which is one of the most popular of Cartier’s jewelry, is the cheapest in Italy.u003cbru003eIn our sample comparison, this particular bracelet is $5,842 less than the same piece sold in the United States.u003cbru003eIf you’re looking for Cartier perfumes, Italy may also be the best place!u003cbru003eThe Cartier branch in the Milan airport offers duty-free perfumes. However, it might have limited watches, bags, and jewelry.
Is Cartier Cheaper in Italy?
Some of Cartier’s items are the cheapest in Italy. For Instance, the Cartier Love Bracelet, which is one of the most popular of Cartier’s jewelry, is the cheapest in Italy.u003cbru003eIn our sample comparison, this particular bracelet is $5,842 less than the same piece sold in the United States.u003cbru003eIf you’re looking for Cartier perfumes, Italy may also be the best place!u003cbru003eThe Cartier branch in the u003ca href=u0022https://milanlinate.shopdutyfree.com/en/146/brands/cartier?product_list_order=price_descu0022u003eMilan airportu003c/au003e offers duty-free perfumes. However, it might have limited watches, bags, and jewelry.
Is Cartier Cheaper in Switzerland?
In all three of our examples, we saw that Cartier is cheaper in Switzerland than in the United States. Yet, it’s worth noting that Switzerland is the most expensive out of all European countries!u003cbru003eThis means if you’re visiting just this country, you can buy Cartier products for cheaper. For those traveling across Europe, you may want to wait until you arrive at a more affordable city.
Is Cartier Cheaper in London?
u003ca href=u0022https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/ShowTopic-g187147-i14-k11889807-Is_it_cheaper_to_buy_Cartier_Jewelry_from_Paris_or_London-Paris_Ile_de_France.htmlu0022u003eAccording to TripAdvisoru003c/au003e, Cartier prices in London are more or less the same as in Paris. The prices in London are also cheaper than in the United States.u003cbru003eGoing into specifics, u003ca href=u0022https://www.harrods.com/en-am/faqs/paymentsu0022u003eHarrods in Londonu003c/au003e offers a VAT refund of up to 20% to orders from addresses outside the EU. You can even order online and have it delivered to the US!u003cbru003eNote that you may have to take the items out of the country u003ca href=u0022https://www.gov.uk/tax-on-shopping/taxfree-shoppingu0022u003ewithin three monthsu003c/au003e. Moreover, you can’t open the packaging and wear the product. Otherwise, the VAT refund gets voided.
Where Is the cheapest place to buy Cartier?
For the cheapest Cartier watches, consider looking at pre-owned options on u003ca href=u0022https://www.chrono24.com/cartier/index.htmu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003eChrono24u003c/au003e or check for discounted prices at u003ca href=u0022https://www.luxurybazaar.com/brands/cartier/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003eLuxury Bazaaru003c/au003e.
Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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