By Maria Doulton in London
I am sure I am not the only woman who thinks that buying for men is so much harder than choosing a present for a woman. So what to do as Christmas approaches and once again the big “what shall I get him” question looms like a dark cloud on the fast approaching horizon?
A good place to start would be to head over to Harrods to the The Man by Cartier pop-up selling exhibition, where there are watches, cufflinks, accessories, leather goods and other man-pleasing luxury items galore. The event runs until 19 November, giving you ample time to choose the perfect gift for the man in your life.
Cartier has been making watches for 110 years and the exhibition celebrates some of the maison’s most iconic designs, including the Santos, the very first wristwatch by Cartier made for Brazilian aviation pioneer Santos-Dumont, and the enduringly elegant Tank watch.
The Man by Cartier salon has the feeling of a gentlemen’s club with its comfortable chairs, contemporary wood panelling and mini library – a luxurious setting in which you can browse a range of watches that span the watchmaking history of Cartier. Starting with the early timepieces created by the intrepid Cartier brothers right up to the brand new Calibre de Cartier Diver watch, the history of horology at Cartier is succinctly brought to life at Harrods. There is even a film, called Shape Your Time, to help tell the story as well as Cartier’s knowledgeable staff on hand.
Don’t miss the ID One and ID Two, Cartier’s groundbreaking concept watches, which are a rare treat to see in London. And if you are really going to push the boat out, ask to see the Fine Watchmaking Collection with its mechanical marvels that will delight watch connoisseurs.
In fact, I have an even better idea for you: send your man to Harrods. I am sure he will enjoy this thoroughly male affair and emerge immersed in the wonderful world of Cartier. He may well come back with a wish list of Christmas gift ideas that will make your life so much easier. Merci beaucoup, Cartier!
The Man by Cartier, pop up selling exhibition at Harrods, Ground Floor, Entrance 10, runs until 19 November 2014.
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A classic Cartier Tank watch for men is one of the cornerstones of the brand’s 110 history of watchmaking.
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Calibre de Cartier watch 1904 MC in rose gold
Cartier
£ 17,800
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One of Cartier’s Fine Watchmaking models features this elegant interpretation of the World Time function.
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sculpted jade sphere gold cufflinks
Cartier
£ 2,500
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Cartier Pasha de Cartier cufflinks with sterling silver, palladium finish and onyx (£540).
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The facade of Cartier’s pop-up boutique at Harrods, called The Man by Cartier.
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A VIP client area at The Man by Cartier pop-up store in Harrods is a luxurious and snug area in which you can browse a range of watches that span the watchmaking history of Cartier.
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There is even a film showing at The Man by Cartier pop-up store in Harrods to help tell the story of 110 years of watchmaking for men.
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A clockwork panther is one of the highlights of Cartier’s short film ‘Shape Your Time’, directed by Bruno Aveillan.
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The Cartier IDONE concept watch is on display until 19 November at The Man by Cartier pop-up store at Harrods.
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The revolutionary and futuristic Cartier IDTWO is also on display at The Man by Cartier pop-up exhibition on the ground floor of Harrods.
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The Fine Watch Bar at The Man by Cartier pop-up salon in Harrods has the feeling of a gentleman’s club with its comfortable chairs and dark wood paneling.
