Introduced: 2001
Purpose / Inspiration: The Roadster was Cartier’s tribute to vintage sports cars—think 1950s Ferraris and Jaguars. Everything about it echoed speed and retro luxury: curved fenders, aerodynamic lines, and a bold presence. This was Cartier stepping into the fast lane, giving its classic elegance a powerful, masculine edge.
Designer: Cartier’s in-house team during the early 2000s push to expand its presence in the sport-luxury segment, alongside pieces like the Calibre and Pasha Chronograph
Case size: Available in midsize (~36mm), large (~38mm x 43mm), and XL chronograph (~47mm lug-to-lug)
Case options: Stainless steel, two-tone, 18k yellow or rose gold; limited editions in black ADLC and full gold
Powered by Cartier automatic or quartz movements (ETA base calibers like 3110 and 2894-2 in chronographs)
Bezel: Tonneau-shaped case with raised cushion-style bezel; smooth or engraved depending on version
Dial options: Silver, black, or slate with large Roman numerals, sword hands, and magnified date window at 3 o’clock
Water resistance: 100m; screw-down crown with fluted “hubcap” style design
Bracelet: Polished and brushed metal bracelet or leather strap; Cartier’s QuickSwitch system made strap swaps fast and tool-free
Discontinued in 2012
No direct successor, but spiritually followed by sportier models like the Calibre and Drive
Why it stood out: The Roadster was big, bold, and unapologetically fun. A Cartier made for the open road—it had character, power, and an unmistakable silhouette. Still loved by collectors for its vintage-car vibe.
Speed Meets Style: Inspired by classic cars, built for the bold
Date with a Bubble: The cyclops lens didn’t just magnify—it made a statement
Tonneau Tough: The case wasn’t round, wasn’t square—just unmistakably Roadster
Quick Change, No Tools: The strap system was decades ahead of its time