Here in the workshop, we see an incredible range of timepieces. From the rugged practicality of a modern diver to the classic appeal of a vintage pocket watch, each watch has its own story, its own distinct flavour. This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming a watch that perhaps best exemplifies the accessible luxury and bold design ethos of its era: a 1998 Must De Cartier 21, the bicolour quartz model.
For those unfamiliar, the ‘Must de Cartier’ line was born in the 1970s as a smart, strategic move by the Parisian Maison to broaden its appeal following the Quartz Crisis. These watches, though often quartz-powered and more affordably cased in stainless steel with gold plating (or vermeil), still possessed that unmistakable Cartier flair. The Must 21, in particular, with its striking, almost sporty circular case and integrated Roman numeral bezel, is a true child of the late 90s.
Must De Cartier Repair
Our client sent this piece in via our fully insured, freepost service, and reported that it had stopped ticking a little while ago. After taking it elsewhere for a battery replacement it was still not working.
Upon opening the back—a task always approached with the utmost care —we confirmed that all this watch needed was a battery replacement and a bit of professional know-how.
The previous attempted repair had bent the battery contacts back, so they weren’t making contact with the battery correctly. This in effect prevents a circuit from being made, as no power is making its way out from the battery. We carefully bent the contacts back into shape and fitted a new Swiss battery. Perhaps unsurprisingly the watch sprung into life!
To confirm there were no other issues with the movement we conducted thorough testing using our Elma Watch Master testing machine. With no problems noted, the case back can be refitted and the watch testing before return to our client.
This instance really does highlight why it’s important to have your watch looked after by a trained professional, especially if you have a valuable or sentimental timepiece. It is unfortunate that we see time and time again watches where poor workmanship has caused avoidable damage to either the case, case back or the movement itself.
The Must De Cartier 21 is a piece of watch history. It represents a time when an ancient Maison adapted to a changing world without sacrificing its design pedigree.
This 1998 icon now heads back to its owner, ticking reliably, and ready for more years of excellent service on the wrist. If you have a classic quartz piece like this sitting in a drawer, don’t let it languish. A little professional care can make all the difference.
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