Cartier 21 Must de Cartier 28mm Watch

Q: What is the Cartier 21 Must de Cartier 28mm watch?
A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made Cartier quartz watch from around 1998, featuring a 28mm stainless‑steel case with gold‑plated details, a silver‑tone dial with blued steel hands, a gold‑tone bezel engraved with Roman numerals, and Cartier’s signature blue cabochon crown. It comes on an integrated two‑tone link bracelet for a refined, jewellery‑like look.

Q: What movement does it use and how long will the battery last?
A: This model typically uses a Swiss quartz movement. Battery life is usually about 2–3 years depending on use and storage. Many Cartier quartz watches take a 1.55V silver‑oxide cell; please have a professional confirm the exact battery type for this specific piece.

Q: How do I set the time on this 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 reference is generally time‑only (no date), so there’s no date‑setting step to consider.

Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I wear it in the rain or swim?
A: As a vintage watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best—avoid swimming, showering or submersion. If light moisture resistance is desired, ask an authorised watchmaker to inspect/replace gaskets and always keep the crown fully pushed in.

Q: What type of crystal does it use?
A: Many 21 Must de Cartier models feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this exact watch, please contact us and we’ll verify it for you.

Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized?
A: This watch fits a wrist of approximately 16.5 cm or smaller. The integrated two‑tone link bracelet can usually be adjusted by removing links. Adding length may require sourcing compatible genuine links for the 21 Must de Cartier series; share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise sizing options.

Q: How should I care for the gold‑plated details and bracelet?
A: Wipe surfaces gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasives, polishes, solvents, perfumes and lotions, which can mark the finish and degrade plating. Store away from humidity and extreme temperatures. Light plating wear is normal on vintage pieces; specialist jewellers can re‑plate if desired.

Q: Is the 28mm size unisex and how does it wear?
A: The 28mm case offers a refined, compact presence suited to smaller wrists and those who prefer a discreet, jewellery‑like watch. It is commonly worn unisex; overall fit depends on wrist shape and style preference.

Q: How can I confirm the reference and production period?
A: This piece is reference 1340, produced circa 1998. Cartier typically engraves reference and serial details on the caseback; we can provide close‑up photos and verify markings on request.

Q: What’s included, and do you offer authenticity, warranty and shipping support?
A: This listing is delivered without accessories as stated. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. 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.