13, rue de la Paix, Paris, France
Chief Executive: Bernard Fornas Finance Director: François Lepercq
www.cartier.com

The legacy of Louis-François Cartier has inspired the production of unique, innovative and remarkable products for generations; 2004 was no exception.

In terms of jewellery, Cartier enjoyed particularly strong performances from its emblematic collections: Panthère, Trinity and Santos. The launch of the Panthère White Gold jewellery collection saw sales double in this line, cementing the iconic status of the Cartier Panthère. The success of the Trinity relaunch proved the timeless appeal of the three gold band theme (pink gold for love, white gold for friendship and yellow gold for fidelity), which was adopted by the legendary Jean Cocteau in 1924.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Santos watch, designed by Louis Cartier in 1904 for renowned aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, Cartier launched the Santos 100, the Santos-Dumont and the Santos Demoiselle models. This new collection has proved one of the most successful watch launches in Cartier's history. The Roadster line, launched in 2003, has also continued to sell strongly.

Cartier has continued to develop its accessories range around the symbolic Trinity theme; the small leather goods collection and Trinity pen have been well received. The Baiser du Dragon perfume, launched in 2003, has firmly established itself in the feminine fragrance market, whilst Cartier has revitalised its gift offering through a diverse range of clocks and cufflinks, bolstering the brand's image as a luxury gift destination. Cartier has accelerated the roll-out of its new design of prestige boutiques, extending the impact and desirability of the Maison. Highlights of the boutique programme during the year included openings in Beirut, Casablanca, Geneva and Honolulu. Working with local partners, Cartier now has nine boutiques in China.

The Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art marked its 20th anniversary with a series of exhibitions. These included 'Pain Couture' by Jean-Paul Gaultier, a production of ephemeral apparel for which bread dough replaces taffeta and silk; the continuing world tour of the acclaimed exhibition by Ettore Sottsass, one of the masters of contemporary design; and the Antiques Fair at the Carrousel du Louvre, where Cartier proudly displayed the world-famous 'Star of the South' diamond.

Cartier has supported its strategic product launches with the dynamism and creativity they deserve. This is borne out by the impressive results seen for the Trinity and Santos lines. At the same time, the Maison has continued to enhance its image through spectacular international events, including the Windsor Polo Tournament. In terms of distribution, investment has been channelled towards gaining space and visibility beyond its own-store retail network. Cartier has expanded its presence in emerging markets such as China and Russia, whilst simultaneously ensuring sustainable growth in established markets, such as Japan, and developing a robust business in the United States.
	Bracelet from the high jewellery collection featuring three cushion emeralds, 452 round brilliant cut diamonds and 168 baguette cut diamonds
Bernard Fornas Chief Executive