What a fake Panthère watch is
A fake Panthère watch is a copy of the Cartier Panthère de Cartier. Cartier released the Panthère de Cartier in 1983. The watch has a square case with rounded corners and a link bracelet. Genuine models use 18k gold, steel, or two-tone metals. Movements are quartz or mechanical. Prices range from $3,000 to $40,000 at retail.
Fakes sell for $50 to $500. High-quality replicas sell for $200 to $600. These replicas often use 316L stainless steel, sapphire glass, and quartz movements. Some use automatic movements.
How to identify a fake Panthère
Check the caseback. Genuine Cartier casebacks have deep engravings, correct serial numbers, and a reference number. Fakes have shallow engravings, wrong fonts, and mismatched numbers.
Look at the dial. Genuine dials have crisp printing. The "Cartier" logo is sharp. Fakes have blurry printing, uneven spacing, and thicker fonts.
Inspect the crown. The crown has a blue spinel cabochon. Genuine spinels are smooth and set flush. Fakes use glass or plastic that sits high or has bubbles.
Weigh the watch. A genuine steel Panthère weighs about 80 grams to 100 grams. Fakes weigh less because they use cheaper metals or hollow links.
Check the bracelet. Genuine links have screws with flat heads. Fakes use pins or screws with poor threading. The links often have sharp edges.
Materials and movements in replicas
Replica Panthère watches come in three grades. Low-grade replicas cost $50 to $150. They use alloy cases, mineral glass, and plastic parts. Mid-grade replicas cost $150 to $300. They use 316L steel, mineral glass, and Chinese quartz movements. High-grade replicas cost $300 to $600. They use 316L steel or gold plating, sapphire glass, and Swiss or Japanese quartz movements. Some high-grade replicas use automatic movements.
Genuine Panthère watches use 18k gold or steel. Movements are Cartier calibers, quartz. The watch has a water resistance of 30 meters.
Price ranges
- Genuine Cartier Panthère: $3,000 to $40,000
- Low-grade fake: $50 to $150
- Mid-grade replica: $150 to $300
- High-grade replica: $300 to $600
Legal notes
In the US, selling counterfeit goods is illegal. The FTC and CBP can seize fake watches. Buying a fake for personal use is not a crime in most states, but customs may confiscate it. Replica watches that do not use Cartier trademarks are legal in some countries but not in the US.
FAQ
Do fake Panthère watches use real gold?
No. Most fakes use gold plating or alloy. Gold plating wears off in 6 to 24 months.
Can a jeweler tell a fake Panthère?
Yes. A jeweler can open the caseback and check the movement, engravings, and serial numbers.
How much does a high-quality replica Panthère cost?
$300 to $600. The price depends on the movement, case material, and glass.