Cartier

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Cartier was founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier. In 1874 Louis-Francois' son, Alfred Cartier took over the running of the company, but it was his sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, who were responsible for establishing the famous world-wide brand name of Cartier. Louis retained responsibility for the Paris branch, moving to the rue de la Paix, in 1899. He instigated some of the company's most celebrated design innovations, like the legendary mystery clocks, high fashion wristwatches, exotic orientalist Art Deco designs including the daringly colourful "Tutti Frutti" jewels. Jaques took charge of the London operation and eventually moved to the current location at New Bond Street. Pierre Cartier established the New York Branch in 1909, moving in 1917 to the current location of 653 Fifth Avenue, the Neo-Renaissance mansion of banker Morton Plant. Amoung the Cartier team was Charles Jacqueau who joined Louis Cartier in 1909 for his entire life and Jeanne Toussaint who was appointed Director of Fine Jewelry from 1933 on. In the 1960s Cartier New York and Cartier Paris passed to outside hands. In 1972 a group of investors led by Joseph Kanoui bought Cartier Paris whose President became Robert Hocq the creator of the concept of "Les Must de Cartier" in collaboration with Alain Dominique Perrin General Director of "Les Must de Cartier". In 1974 and 1976 respectively, Cartier London and Cartier New York was bought back. In 1979 the Cartier interests were combined together creating "Cartier Monde" uniting and controlling Cartier Paris, London and New York.