In the 1980s Hans Nadelhoffer was granted exclusive access to the Cartier archives, including previously unpublished photographs and designs, to write the history of the Cartier empire.

For over a century, Cartier has been synonymous with the finest and most exclusive jewelry in the world. The enduring hallmarks have always been top-quality gems, imaginative and distinctive designs, and the most exquisite workmanship. For tsars and maharajas, European royalty and American super-millionaires, Cartier has been the recognized purveyor of luxury, the epitome of glittering opulence.

In this new edition, the book, now printed throughout in colour, has been completely redesigned, and many new colour illustrations have been added. Further discoveries made since the original volume was published have been incorporated in the text.

The career of the house of Cartier is traced from its modest beginnings in Paris to its eventual predominance over the world of fashion. With stories as well as technical and documentary material, this sumptuous book shows how Cartier has set stylistic modes and standards throughout its years of overwhelming success, and gives full credit to the little-known individuals who helped to bring this about.