Martin Thomas Gatins, senior vice-president of Cartier North America, died Friday, May 4, at New York Presbyterian Hospital of complications arising from a five-year battle with leukemia.. He was 61 and was instrumental in Cartier’s success as both a luxury retailer and as an involved and responsible member of the jewelry and watch community in the United States.
Gatins joined Cartier North America in 1996 and quickly became a member of the company’s Executive Committee. His drive and expertise went beyond the realm of his direct responsibilities. His drive for excellence and passion for the House of Cartier influenced everyone who worked with or met him. He was a mentor to many.
A native of Paris, France, Gatins was raised in Atlanta, Georgia.. After graduation from the University of Tennessee with a degree in business administration, his business career included time spent as a chemical firm executive, cut flower importer, manufacturer’s representative in the textile and textile chemical industries, and finally as a luxury sales executive.
Gatins was a former President of the American Watch Association, instrumental in the Jewelry Information Center Gem Awards and a member of the prestigious 24 Karat Club of New York City.. As a highly respected leader within the luxury industry, he was a member of all prominent jewelry associations in New York.
Beyond his professional life, Gatins was a dedicated philanthropist.. As the chairman of the advisory committee of the Katherine John Murphy Foundation, he dedicated himself to numerous charitable organizations.
He is survived by his wife, Dianne Clark Gatins, four children:. Phillip, Audrey, Jeanette and John; daughter-in-law, Lily Cruz Gatins, and grandchildren. A memorial mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, New York, on Monday, May 7 at 2:30pm with a reception to follow at the Cartier Mansion at 653 Fifth Avenue, New York.. A second memorial mass will be held at Christ the King Cathedral in Atlanta, Georgia, on Wednesday May 9, at 4:00pm with a reception to follow at 5:30pm at the Piedmont Driving Club.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Leukemia Fighters Program. Please make checks payable to:
Leukemia Fighters/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
c/o Dr. Gail J. Roboz,
520 East 70th Street, Box 403,
New York, NY 10021.
Letters and condolence notes may be sent to 34 Old Coach Road, Fairfield, Connecticut, 06824.


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