If you thought the Cartier watch craze had faded, think again. From the avant-garde Crash to the iconic Tank, the French luxury jeweler is hotter than ever. While Piaget made waves last year and Rolex remains a status symbol, there’s something uniquely elegant about a simple, time-only dress watch in precious metal—especially when it bears the Cartier name.
Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton is among the growing list of celebrities and athletes embracing Cartier watches. After a recent game against the San Antonio Spurs in Paris, Haliburton was spotted wearing a rare Cartier Bamboo Coussin, a vintage masterpiece from the 1970s.
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The Cartier Bamboo Coussin, with its unique fusion of Parisian elegance and Eastern influence, is a true gem for collectors. Haliburton’s bold choice underscores the growing trend of vintage Cartier pieces and signals a powerful comeback of rectangular dress watches in men’s fashion.
Why Tyrese Haliburton’s Cartier Bamboo Coussin Is a Game-Changer
Haliburton’s Cartier watch may not be as instantly recognizable as some of the more mainstream models, but it represents an exciting shift in the watch industry. Here’s why his Cartier Bamboo Coussin is such a standout piece:
#1. A Rare and Collectible Vintage Cartier
The Cartier Bamboo Coussin is no ordinary timepiece. Designed in the 1970s and produced in limited numbers, this model has become a coveted treasure among collectors. Haliburton’s piece—a 28.5mm x 36mm reference 78102 in yellow gold—is believed to be one of just 250 ever made. Its rarity has propelled its value, with recent auction sales soaring past $117,000.
#2. A Unique Rectangular Design with Eastern Influences
Unlike the sharp, linear design of the traditional Cartier Tank, the Bamboo Coussin boasts a softer, more organic silhouette. Its bezel, shaped to mimic rounded bamboo shoots, lends the watch a flowing, sculptural elegance. This blend of Eastern and Parisian design elements makes it a standout among Cartier’s classics, enhancing its timeless, vintage allure.
#3. Skyrocketing Prices in the Vintage Market
Haliburton’s Cartier watch isn’t just a stylish accessory—it’s a savvy investment. In August 2023, vintage watch expert Mike Nouveau acquired a Bamboo Coussin for $12,000. By January 2024, a similar model sold for $60,000, and by November, a yellow-gold version fetched $117,931 at Christie’s. For those seeking something even rarer, a white-gold Cartier Bamboo recently sold for an eye-popping $352,000. The demand for these exceptional timepieces is clearly on the rise.
#4. A Testament to Cartier’s Timeless Design
What sets Cartier apart is its ability to craft timeless pieces. Haliburton’s Cartier Bamboo Coussin embodies this with many signature features of classic Cartier models, including a white lacquered dial with black Roman numerals, a railroad minute track, sword-shaped hands, and the iconic blue cabochon crown. Despite its unconventional shape, it still carries the distinct DNA that makes Cartier watches revered worldwide.
#5. The Shift in Celebrity Watch Trends
Two decades ago, the courtside watch scene was ruled by oversized Panerais, chunky IWCs, and bold Lange timepieces. However, in recent years, there’s been a shift toward slimmer, more refined designs—particularly vintage Cartier watches. Seeing a 6’5” NBA star like Haliburton choose a sleek, understated Cartier Bamboo Coussin speaks volumes about how both the watch industry and celebrity style have evolved.
Cartier’s Resurgence in Men’s Fashion
Cartier’s rise in popularity isn’t just about nostalgia—it reflects a shift in men’s fashion toward subtle luxury and timeless design. As collectors and enthusiasts increasingly gravitate toward vintage Cartier pieces, the allure of models like the Cartier Tank and Bamboo Coussin lies in their seamless blend of history, artistry, and sophistication.
Tyrese Haliburton’s choice of Cartier highlights the strong resurgence of rectangular dress watches. Whether you’re an NBA star or a style-conscious professional, a Cartier watch is more than an accessory—it’s a statement of refined taste and appreciation for horological craftsmanship. If you’re eyeing a Cartier Tank, Bamboo Coussin, or a rare vintage model, now might be the perfect time to invest—before prices climb even higher.
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Featured image: Loic Baratoux/Getty Images
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