T he Cartier Santos collection is one of the most recognizable designs in watchmaking. As with many of Cartier's longstanding, highly popular models, a range of impressive diamond-set models are available. Sotheby's global network of Cartier specialists have brought many such examples to market, and in this guide we explore five notable lots.
Cartier Santos 100 Flying Tourbillon Reference 3231, 437,500 HKD
This Cartier Santos 100 Flying Tourbillon Reference 3231 was sold for 437,500 HKD at Sotheby's Important Watches sale in April 2019. We start out with a particularly special Cartier Santos model that combines remarkable watchmaking complexity with refined use of diamond-setting.
Released circa 2010, the defining characteristic of this Cartier Santos model is the flying tourbillon mechanism. Debuted in 2008 at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH, now Watches of Wonders), the flying tourbillon differed from the traditional approach. It is anchored by a bridge and gave the illusion of unencumbered rotation on its axis every 60 seconds, creating a visually captivating display.
The rarity of the model was also underpinned by the luxurious combination of 18k white gold casing coupled with 51 brilliant-cut diamonds on the bezel. The refined aesthetic of the 41mm watch was completed by a black alligator strap.
A striking Cartier watch rarely seen at auction, strong collector interest made this one of the most expensive Cartier Santos models ever sold by Sotheby's.
Cartier Santos 100 Mystérieuse, 40,000 USD
This Cartier Santos 100 Mystérieuse was brought to auction in December 2019, realising a price of 40,000 USD. Created as part of a limited series of 10 pieces, this model stood out for its large-sized palladium case featuring diamonds weighing approximately 6.8 carats.
Further setting this particular Cartier Santos model apart was its unique mystery aperture, where the levitating hands seem to defy gravity by moving independently within a transparent dial. This illusion was achieved through the use of sapphire crystal discs that held the hands in place without any visible connection to the movement. The Cartier Mysterious collection took inspiration from Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, the renowned French magician and clock-maker who devised the first Mystery Clock in 1913.
Cartier Santos 100 Reference 2879, 81,250 HKD
This Cartier Santos 100 Reference 2879 was sold for 81,250 HKD in May 2020. Dating from circa 2017, it was a good example of Cartier's ability to create stunning contemporary versions of its longstanding models (the Cartier Santos is over 100 years old).
This automatic Cartier Santos paired a handsome pink gold case with pavé-set diamonds on the bezel, with the white Cartier rubber strap completing the contemporary aesthetic. Further design features included the silvered dial with pink gold Roman numerals, a signature of the Cartier maison's design language.
Cartier Santos Demoiselle Reference 2702, 9,450 USD
This Cartier Santos Demoiselle was sold for 9,450 USD in our June 2021 Fine Watches sale in New York. A classic ladies Cartier watch in many respects, this 18k yellow gold Santos included a diamond-set square bezel with trademark Roman numeral silvered dial.
Introduced in 2008, the Cartier Santos Demoiselle range paid tribute to Cartier's legacy of blending fine craftsmanship with luxurious materials.
Cartier Santos 100 Reference 2880, 11,875 CHF
This Cartier Santos 100 Reference 2880 was sold for 11,875 CHF in March 2020. Released in 2010, this watch stood out as a bold creation within the Cartier Santos range.
This yellow gold Cartier Santos 100 showcased the brand's confidence in elevating its traditional models, using sporty proportions coupled with elegant and precise diamond-setting. It retained the design cues that make Cartier so instantly recognizable, such as the Roman numeral dial and the minute track towards the center.
Buying and Selling Cartier Santos Watches at Sotheby's
Sotheby's is on hand to support with your next Cartier Santos purchase or sale of an existing watch. Our experts are well versed in the many Santos models available, including rarer editions with diamond setting. Work with Sotheby's Cartier specialists and in doing so be part of our community of passionate watch enthusiasts and collectors.
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