What is a replica Panthère watch?

A replica Panthère watch is a copy of the Cartier Panthère de Cartier. Cartier released the original in 1983. The watch has a square case, Roman numerals, and a linked bracelet. Replicas are not made by Cartier. Third-party factories make them. Prices range from $50 to $400. Quality varies by factory and materials.

Case and size

The original Panthère de Cartier comes in three sizes. The small model measures 27mm by 37mm. The medium model measures 31mm by 42mm. The large model measures 36mm by 47mm. Most replicas copy the small or medium size. Case thickness is 6mm to 7mm. The case shape is a rectangle with rounded corners. The bezel has screws on some models. The crown is set with a blue synthetic spinel or a blue cabochon.

Movement

Genuine Panthère de Cartier watches use quartz movements. Some large models use automatic movements. Replicas use quartz movements from Japan or China. A few high-end replicas use Swiss quartz movements. Automatic replicas exist but are less common. The movement affects the second hand sweep. Quartz movements tick once per second. Automatic movements sweep without ticks.

Materials

Authentic Panthère watches use 18k gold or stainless steel. Replicas use 316L stainless steel, gold plating, or gold-tone alloy. The plating can wear off. Crystals are mineral glass or sapphire. Sapphire is more scratch-resistant. Bracelets are stainless steel or leather. The bracelet links are solid on better replicas. Replicas under $100 use hollow links.

How to identify a replica

Check the case back. Authentic watches have a serial number and a reference number. Many replicas have markings that do not match. Check the dial. The Cartier logo must match the original. The Roman numerals must be correct. The "VII" numeral should look like "VII", not "IIV". Check the crown. The blue spinel should have no scratches. Check the bracelet. The screws on the bezel should align. Check the weight. Gold watches weigh more. Steel replicas weigh less.

Legal note

In the United States, selling counterfeit watches is illegal. Buying a replica for personal use is not illegal in most states. Importing counterfeits can lead to seizure. Cartier enforces its trademarks. Reselling a replica as genuine is fraud.