Cartier, Paris

The Cartier Santos-Dumont is a refined and elegant wristwatch that pays homage to the pioneering spirit of aviation and the legacy of Alberto Santos-Dumont. First designed in 1904, the Santos-Dumont was created at the request of the famed Brazilian aviator, who needed a timepiece that could be easily read while flying. Louis Cartier answered this request with one of the world's first purpose-built wristwatches, featuring a sleek, square case with exposed screws—an innovative and instantly recognizable design that has remained a hallmark of the Santos collection ever since.

Unlike the sportier Santos de Cartier models, the Santos-Dumont embraces a thinner, more dress-oriented profile, often crafted in precious metals such as pink gold, white gold, or platinum. It typically features a hand-wound mechanical movement, allowing for a sleek and refined aesthetic. With its Roman numeral dial, railroad minute track, and signature blue cabochon crown, the Santos-Dumont embodies the timeless elegance of Cartier’s design philosophy while maintaining a direct connection to its aviation heritage.

The present example is powered by the famous calibre 21 by Frederic Piguet introduced in 1925. At only 1.75 mm, it was one of the thinnest movements available when it was unveiled, until the introduction of the Audemars Piguet calibre 2003 in 1952. Additionally, the present example features a beautifully preserved Paris signature dial sought after by collectors.