Case #178 — Cartier Must de Cartier Small  Ref. WSTA0042

Status: Active Investigation
Condition: Excellent Pre-Owned
Scope: Box, Warranty Card & Care Brochure

🔎 Case Notes

The Cartier Must de Cartier Small Ref. WSTA0042 is a study in timeless elegance — a refined expression of one of the most recognizable silhouettes in watch history. With its compact rectangular case, classic Roman numerals, blued sword hands, and sapphire cabochon crown, this piece embodies Cartier’s unmatched mastery of form.

The Small size wears with effortless grace, offering a jewelry-forward presence that feels equally appropriate for daily wear or special occasions. It’s a watch that doesn’t chase trends — it simply endures.

This example is presented in excellent pre-owned condition, showing minimal evidence of wear. The case remains crisp, the dial is clean and evenly toned, and the crystal presents beautifully. It includes its original box, warranty card, and care brochure, rounding out a strong and tasteful presentation.

🕰️ The Evidence

Reference: WSTA0042
Model: Cartier Must de Cartier (Small)
Case: Stainless Steel, Rectangular
Bezel: Polished Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Dial: Silvered Dial with Roman Numerals
Hands: Blued Steel Sword Hands
Crown: Sapphire Cabochon
Movement: Cartier Quartz
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet (or strap, if applicable — can adjust)
Water Resistance: 30 m
Accessories: Box, Warranty Card & Care Brochure
Condition Notes: Excellent overall; minimal signs of careful wear; dial and crystal clean; strong, elegant presentation.

🎨 The Must de Cartier Legacy

The Must de Cartier collection was created to bring Cartier’s iconic design language to a wider audience while preserving everything that makes the brand special. Over time, it has become a cornerstone for collectors who value elegance, heritage, and versatility.

The Small variant highlights the purity of the design:

• Balanced, architectural proportions

• Jewelry-like presence on the wrist

• A silhouette that has remained relevant for over a century

• Effortless transition from day to evening wear

🌟 Collector Provenance

Small Must de Cartier models in excellent condition with original presentation materials remain highly desirable, particularly for collectors seeking timeless design with everyday wearability. This example’s clean condition and documentation make it an especially appealing offering.

🌟 Celebrity Provenance

Cartier’s rectangular watches have long been favored by artists, tastemakers, and cultural icons — admired not for excess, but for restraint. The Must de Cartier continues that lineage with quiet confidence and enduring style.

🧾 From the Case File

“Recovered complete with box, warranty card, and care brochure. Condition remains excellent, with minimal signs of wear and a clean, well-preserved dial. A graceful example of Cartier’s most enduring design language.”

🗝️ BST Verdict

Case #178 represents Cartier elegance in its most refined form — compact, timeless, and beautifully preserved. With its excellent condition and complete presentation, this Must de Cartier Small is an ideal standalone piece or a meaningful addition to a broader collection.

Also of note: we currently have Case #177, the Large (Men’s) Must de Cartier, available as well. The two can be acquired together as a paired set, and we’re happy to offer bundle consideration for those looking to close both cases at once.