Watch Paparazzi

Model Sara Sampaio spotted wearing Cartier

Sara Sampaio was recently photographed wearing a Cartier Panthère de Cartier in the medium size, reference WJPN0009 — a rose gold and diamond piece that underlines the model's enduring status as the crossover point between haute joaillerie and serious watchmaking.

The Panthère de Cartier WJPN0009 is crafted in 18-carat rose gold and powered by a quartz movement, a deliberate and unapologetic choice that keeps the case slim and the focus squarely on the sculptural bracelet. The bezel is set with brilliant-cut diamonds, as is the crown — a detail that elevates the reference beyond the standard Panthère lineup and pushes it firmly into gem-set territory. The mid-size case measures 25 mm, slotting between the 22 mm small and the 27 mm large, and the articulated bracelet — Cartier's signature construction that allows the case and links to flex as a single sinuous form — is executed here in polished rose gold throughout.

The Panthère has a history worth respecting. Introduced in 1983 and designed under the creative direction that defined Cartier's modern identity, it was conceived as a watch that moved with the wrist rather than sitting on it. The panther motif — long associated with the Maison since Jeanne Toussaint's influence in the mid-20th century — gives the collection its name and its spirit. The WJPN0009 carries list pricing of approximately €27,900, reflecting the diamond-set specifications and the complexity of the articulated bracelet construction.

Among collectors, the gem-set Panthère occupies a specific niche: it is bought as much for its jewellery credentials as for its watchmaking pedigree, and that dual identity is precisely its strength. The quartz calibre draws no criticism here — purists understand that a mechanical movement would compromise the ultra-thin profile that makes the bracelet architecture work.

Sara Sampaio's choice of the Cartier Panthère de Cartier WJPN0009 is consistent with how the piece is worn at the highest level of the fashion world — as an understated luxury signal rather than a bold horological statement. On the grey market, examples of the WJPN0009 trade close to retail given Cartier's strong brand control and consistent demand.