Cartier Santos Carree ref. 2961

In 1904, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont turned to his friend Louis Cartier with a practical problem: his pocket watch proved unreliable and inconvenient during flight. Rising to the occasion, Cartier created an innovative solution, a wristwatch designed specifically for aviation. The result was a sleek, flat watch with a distinctive square bezel. Originally a custom piece for Santos-Dumont, it soon captured the attention of Cartier’s clientele. By 1911, the design was officially introduced as the Cartier Santos-Dumont, marking the beginning of the first mass-produced wristwatch.

The legacy of the Santos remains as iconic as its origins. This particular model, a two-tone Santos Galbée from the 1980s, exudes timeless sophistication. Crafted from stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, it features a rich burgundy dial accented by gilded hands. With a slightly larger 29mm case than its predecessors, it maintains elegant proportions, making it a perfect choice for slimmer wrists or anyone seeking a refined touch of luxury.