Cartier

The Cartier Santos-Dumont is a groundbreaking timepiece with deep historical roots, widely regarded as one of the first modern wristwatches. In 1904, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont expressed his frustration to his friend Louis Cartier about the inconvenience and impracticality of using a pocket watch while piloting. In response, Cartier designed a flat wristwatch with a distinctive square bezel, giving birth to what is widely considered the first mass-produced men’s wristwatch—and possibly the first pilot’s watch. This collaboration marked a pivotal moment in horological history. However, it wasn’t until 1911 that this model became commercially available. Since then, it remains an enduring icon, celebrating the remarkable legacy of Alberto Santos-Dumont and Cartier’s forward-thinking vision.

The present watch features a slightly unusual case design, a little different from other Santos examples of the 1920s, with a broader bezel and squarer lugs. The case features French hall marks and an Edmond Jaeger maker’s mark, common with Paris examples of the period. The watch is also accompanied by an associated French 18k yellow gold bracelet.