FERRARI so called “CARTIER” c.1987 Original with papers

Model Code: tbc

Ferrari Chronograph — The “Cartier” Ferrari Watch

A Rare Piece of Ferrari & Watchmaking History

For collectors who appreciate the meeting point of Italian automotive heritage and fine mechanical watchmaking, this exceptional Ferrari chronograph offers a fascinating piece of 1980s history.

Often referred to by collectors as the “Cartier Ferrari”, these watches are associated with the period when Cartier held distribution rights for Ferrari watches during the 1980s. The combination of the legendary Ferrari name, distinctive period styling and a robust Swiss automatic chronograph movement makes this a particularly appealing watch for both Ferrari enthusiasts and vintage chronograph collectors.

At its heart is the highly regarded Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movement — one of the great workhorse movements of Swiss watchmaking. Renowned for its reliability, durability and straightforward serviceability, the 7750 has powered countless important chronographs and remains a favourite among collectors.

The watch captures the character of its era perfectly: bold, purposeful and unmistakably connected to the world of Ferrari. It belongs to a fascinating period when prestigious automotive marques increasingly extended their identities beyond the car itself, creating watches and other objects that allowed enthusiasts to carry a piece of the marque with them.

For the Ferrari collector, it represents more than simply a chronograph. It is a period Ferrari accessory with genuine historical context, reflecting the brand’s presence in the luxury lifestyle market during the 1980s. For the watch collector, it offers the appeal of an unusual branded chronograph combined with the proven engineering of the Valjoux 7750.

A Collector’s Conversation Piece

Today, Ferrari watches from this period are increasingly appreciated for their rarity, originality and place within the wider history of the marque. They sit at an interesting crossroads between horology, motorsport and Ferrari memorabilia, making them particularly enjoyable collector’s pieces.

Whether acquired as a companion to a Ferrari collection, as a distinctive 1980s chronograph, or simply because of its fascinating Cartier connection, this is a watch with a story to tell.

Experience Bowcliffe Hall

We invite collectors, Ferrari enthusiasts and lovers of exceptional vintage watches to experience this piece in person at Bowcliffe Hall.

Set within one of Yorkshire’s most distinctive historic estates, Bowcliffe Hall provides a unique setting in which to view our collection of important and interesting watches.

For motoring enthusiasts, a visit offers an additional attraction: Bowcliffe Hall’s unique Private Drivers Club, a community and gathering place created for those who share a genuine passion for exceptional cars, driving and automotive heritage.

It makes Bowcliffe Hall a particularly fitting destination for a Ferrari watch — bringing together the worlds of horology, performance cars, collecting and the enjoyment of great engineering in one exceptional setting.

Available to view at Bowcliffe Hall by appointment.

For those who love both cars and watches, this Ferrari chronograph is a particularly evocative reminder that the worlds of motorsport and horology have always shared the same fascination with precision, performance and engineering.