Cartier was established in Paris in 1847 when its founder, Louis-Francois Cartier, took over his master’s workshop. In 1859 Cartier opened his first boutique. In 1874, Louis-Francois’ son, Alfred Cartier, took over the business. Alfred’s business acumen was far more advanced than his father’s, and his ambition was to grow the business quickly. Today the company maintains its headquarters in Paris, although it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group. Cartier operates more than 200 stores in 125 countries, with three Temples in London, New York, and Paris. Cartier is perhaps best known for its jewelry and watches, but it has also forged successful niches in leather goods and perfumes.