u/Kysara

The attached photo is FOR REFERENCE ONLY. I created it using images from other sellers to show the same watch model and the original box and document contents that came with mine. My actual watch is still with the jeweler who appraised it, so I do not currently have it available to photograph. Once I receive it back, I can provide clear photos of the actual watch, caseback, condition, buckle, receipt and paperwork.

I recently found a vintage Must de Cartier Tank Vermeil SM, reference 5057001, among my grandfather’s belongings.

The watch has a quartz movement, a gold-vermeil case over sterling silver and a blue sapphire cabochon on the crown. The original sales receipt shows that it was purchased from an independent jeweler in 1989. I have not confirmed the exact production year, so I am describing it only as purchased in 1989.

It appears to include nearly the complete original set:

• Original red Cartier presentation box

• Original white outer box

• Original red leather document folder

• Original dated sales receipt from 1989

• Warranty and instruction booklet

• Original international guarantee certificate, left blank

The leather strap is extremely worn and needs to be replaced. I still need to confirm whether the original Cartier buckle is present.

The watch is also not currently running. I do not know whether it only needs a battery or whether the quartz movement requires repair. As far as I know, the case has not yet been opened.

The jeweler who appraised it offered $250 and said they would purchase it for parts because it is not running and needs a strap. I am trying to decide whether it is financially worth repairing before selling.

I do not have much money available to put into the watch, and I am worried that an official Cartier service, Cartier replacement strap or movement repair could cost more than the amount those repairs would add to the eventual sale price.

I would especially appreciate advice on the following:

1. Should I first pay only for a careful battery replacement and inspection?

2. If it needs more than a battery, is it usually worth repairing this model before selling, or would I be better off selling it as-is?

3. Would servicing it through Cartier add enough resale value to justify the cost, or would a reputable independent watchmaker who specializes in vintage Cartier be the better option?

4. Does the watch need a genuine Cartier strap to retain its value, or could I install a good-quality replacement strap while preserving the original buckle?

5. Would buyers generally prefer to choose their own strap rather than having me spend money replacing it?

6. Is there a repair-cost limit beyond which I would probably not recover the expense when selling?

7. Would service documentation or proof that the movement is functioning make a meaningful difference to buyers?

I understand that dealer asking prices are not the same as actual sale prices. I am mainly looking for the most sensible and cost-effective next step so I do not spend money on repairs that I will not recover.

Again, the attached image is only a reference composition made from other sellers’ photos. It is an accurate representation of the watch model and the items included with mine, but it is not a photograph of my actual watch.

I am not currently offering the watch for sale. Please keep comments to ADVICE ONLY. ,