Cartier Panthère de Cartier Rimless 18K Yellow Gold Eyewear
Luxury Prescription Eyewear (Rimless Frame) · Yellow Gold, featuring a rich, warm saturation characteristic of high-purity French jewelry alloys.
Purity: Solid 18K Gold (750/1000 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold. Known for its balance of durability and intrinsic value.
Type
Luxury Prescription Eyewear (Rimless Frame)
Purity
Solid 18K Gold (750/1000 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold. Known for its balance of durability and intrinsic value.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, featuring a rich, warm saturation characteristic of high-purity French jewelry alloys.
Weight
25 to 35 grams total weight. The metal components of Cartier gold frames typically consist of solid 18K gold unless marked as 'gold-finish'.
Description
Exquisite Cartier Panthère rimless frames, representing the pinnacle of luxury optical wear. This model features the iconic sculptural panther heads at the temple hinges, gripping the lenses with elegance. The frames are crafted from solid 18K yellow gold, making them both a piece of functional eyewear and a high-value item of jewelry. They are presented on a signature 'Cartier Red' Saffiano-leather effect case.
Key Features
Sculptural Panthère décor on the temple joints; signature Cartier bridge design; 18K solid gold construction; custom rimless lens mounting.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish on the Panthère motifs and temples. The gold exhibits a deep, radiant yellow luster synonymous with the Cartier prestige.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'Cartier' logo on the bridge or temples; '750' purity mark; individual serial number; French assay marks (eagle's head) and maker's sponsor mark usually on the inside of the arms.
Dimensions Estimate
Bridge width ~18mm, temple length ~140mm. Standard adult fit. Custom lens size depending on prescription requirements.
Gemstones & Inlays
Panthère heads at the hinges. Higher-end variants may feature tsavorite or emerald eyes and onyx lacquered spots, though this specific model appears to be the solid gold sculptural version.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features precision spring hinges for comfort and structural stability.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid gold temples with temple-tip finishing in high-quality acetate (likely tortoiseshell patterned).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered hinges; hand-finished sculptural elements; high-quality threading for lens stability; flawless transition from metal to acetate temple tips.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep engraving of the brand name and serial number; high-quality finishing on the panther head details; correct 'Cartier' font on the case; precise assembly of bridge screws. Red flag: light weight or 'green' oxidation on hinges would indicate gold plating.
Origin & Maker
Manufactured in France by Cartier (Manufacture Cartier Lunettes in Sucy-en-Brie).
Era & Period
Contemporary Panthère Collection, modern era (2010s-Present). This style draws inspiration from the 1914 Panthère motif.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 2015 and 2023. These designs are part of Cartier's active luxury eyewear catalog.
Cultural Significance
Cartier eyewear, particularly the 'Bubbles' and 'Panthers', holds massive cultural significance in luxury fashion and hip-hop culture as symbols of extreme wealth and sophisticated taste.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition (Grade: Very Good/Excellent). Gold shows minimal hairline scratches; lenses are clear; nose pads appear original; case is well-preserved.
Value Estimate
$3,000 - $6,000 USD (Resale/Secondary Market); Retail Replacement Value $8,000 - $12,000+ depending on current gold prices and optics.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with specialized microfiber cloths and lukewarm water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if lenses have coatings. Professional buffing of the 18K temples can remove fine scratches. Store in the hard case provided.
Similar Items
Cartier C-Décor (Première), Cartier Santos de Cartier gold frames, Fred Force 10 eyewear, and Maybach 'The Diplomat' series.
Interesting Facts
The Panthère motif was first introduced by Cartier in 1914 and became a symbol of femininity and power through artistic director Jeanne Toussaint. This eyewear is among the most expensive mass-produced optical frames in the world.