
Santos-Dumont Skeleton, Ref. WHSA0044 | A stainless steel skeletonised wristwatch | Circa 2025
Auction Closed
May 10, 02:36 PM GMT
Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: skeletonised
Calibre: cal. 9612 MC automatic, 33 jewels
Case: stainless steel with black lacquer, sapphire crystal display case back secured by 4 screws
Case number: 168'896FY
Closure: stainless steel Cartier buckle
Size: 31.4 x 43.5 mm (width x length)
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Cartier International Limited Warranty, care manual, watch tool, loupe, instruction manual and presentation box
Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.
First introduced at Watches & Wonders in Geneva in 2023, this version of the iconic Cartier Santos-Dumont wristwatch is both a reinterpretation and homage to the Santos de Cartier, originally created for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.
With its rounded edges, exposed screws, blued-steel sword-shaped hands, and sapphire cabochon, this model retains the signature details of the Santos dial and case synonymous with refined elegance and functional sophistication. And yet, its most appealing characteristic, setting it apart from previous skeletonised Santos models, is its movement.
Developed by the Manufacture over three years to fit within the skeletonised dial, cal. 9629 MC features a miniature model of Demoiselle, Santos-Dumont’s beloved aircraft, in its micro-rotor, modelled on the aviator's designs. In stainless steel with a satin finish, the biplane both stands out and perfectly harmonises with the skeletonised movement.
The model was originally launched in steel, yellow gold and rose gold. The present example in stainless steel with black lacquer, together with its bold movement design, makes for a versatile piece that marries elegance with everyday wearability.
A contemporary wristwatch that merges the timeless design language of Cartier with the modern technological advancements of the Santos-Dumont era, the present model will make a worthy addition to any modern or classic watches collection.