Cartier, one of the oldest and the most reputed jeweler, began with and still does cater to the royalty and the celebrities of the world. The Cartier Company came into being in 1847, when Louis Francois Cartier founded the company in Paris. Cartier’s light delicate designs were strong competition to the heavy jewellery used in those days. In 1874, Cartier’s son Alfred took over the business and included watches to its jewellery collection. His son Louis Cartier joined the family business in 1899. Louis’ great love for pocket watches led him to accept the challenge of making the perfect watch for his friend and aviator, Alberto Santos-Dumont, who found his existing watch very cumbersome during his flights. The watch was much appreciated, not only by Santos but Cartier’s other clientele as well. Hence, came the ‘Santos’ design into being. In 1907, Cartier roped in Edward Jaeger, who was later to form a joint company with him, to exclusively provide movements to its watches. After its success with its London store, Cartier moved on to take over the American market, by opening its first shop in New York. It continued to produce its most elegant designer watches, thereby spreading its business all over the world. Cartier’s most famous designs such as the Santos, Pasha, Tank and Roadster are still produced today. The watches come with a special four digit reference number, which is the seal of its authenticity. The fine niche that Cartier created for itself years and years ago is maintained to date.