A Fine and Rare Gold Rectangular Wristwatch, Cartier, 'Santos' model, Circa 1975

18k, circular nickel lever movement, 17 jewels, glucydur balance, free-sprung regulator, unadjusted, white dial, Roman numerals, blued steel hands, secret signature to VII, rectangular case with raised bezel secured by eight screws, beveled corner, sapphire-set crown, downturned lugs, back secured by four screws in the band, case, dial and movement signed with an 18k gold Cartier deployant buckle.

The 'Santos'  is one of the most well-known and beloved models made by Cartier. The first 'Santos'  is thought to have been produced as early as 1911.

In 1973, Cartier re-launched several models that had not been produced for many years. The present lot is part of this so-called 'Louis Cartier Collection'.

For more information on the 'Santos', see Barracca, Negretti & Nencini, Le Temps de Cartier, pp. 44-46. For an illustration of the present 1973 model, see Cologni, The Tank Watch, p.138.