Q: What is the Cartier Vendome Vermeil 24mm Rare Dial Watch?
A: It’s a vintage, Swiss-made Cartier from around 2000 featuring a 24mm vermeil case (gold-plated sterling silver), a rare gold-striped dial with blued steel hands, and a burgundy crocodile-embossed leather strap. It’s powered by a reliable quartz movement and is delivered with a Cartier Service pouch as stated.

Q: What does “vermeil” mean and how should I care for the case?
A: Vermeil is sterling silver plated with a layer of gold. Care by wiping gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasive polishes, solvents, perfumes and lotions, which can mark the plating. Store away from humidity and extreme temperatures. Light plating wear is normal on vintage pieces; specialist jewellers can re-plate if desired.

Q: What movement does it use and how long will the battery last?
A: It uses a Swiss quartz movement. Typical battery life is about 2–3 years depending on use and storage. Many similar Cartier quartz models take a 1.55V silver-oxide cell; please have a professional confirm the exact battery type for this specific watch.

Q: Is it water-resistant and can I wear it in the rain or swim with it?
A: As a vintage piece, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash-resistant at best and avoid swimming, showering or submersion. If light moisture resistance is desired, have the gaskets inspected/replaced by a qualified watchmaker and keep the crown fully pushed in.

Q: How do I set the time on this quartz watch?
A: Gently pull the crown out to the time-setting position and turn the hands to the correct time. Push the crown back in firmly when finished. This model is typically time-only (no date), so there’s no date-setting step.

Q: What wrist size will it fit, and can the strap be changed?
A: This piece fits a wrist of approximately 18.25 cm or smaller. The leather strap can usually be swapped for another strap if you prefer a different colour or material; contact us to confirm the correct lug width and we’ll advise compatible options.

Q: What type of crystal does it use?
A: Vendome Vermeil models from this period may feature either sapphire or mineral crystals depending on the exact configuration. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this specific watch, please contact us and we’ll verify it for you.

Q: Is the 24mm Vendome considered unisex, and how does it wear?
A: The 24mm case offers a petite, jewellery-like presence ideal for smaller wrists. Many collectors wear this size unisex; the refined round case and slim profile give it an elegant vintage look that complements dress and everyday smart styles.

Q: What servicing and accuracy should I expect from a vintage quartz Cartier?
A: Replace the battery every 2–3 years and have seals/gaskets inspected if light moisture resistance is important. A routine movement check every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if you notice issues (e.g., stopping or condensation). Keep the watch away from strong magnets and wipe it clean after wear.

Q: Is it authentic, and what warranty/shipping do you offer?
A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. This listing is delivered with a Cartier Service pouch as stated. All watches include a 12-month movement guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14-day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.