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Cartier Santos Carree Automatique Ref. 2960

This Cartier Santos Carrée Automatique Ref. 2960 is one of those watches that shows just how much character Cartier manages to put into a square case. Dating to circa 1985 and measuring 29 x 29 mm, it has that distinct geometry of the Santos, but in solid 18k yellow gold it becomes warmer, richer and a little more dressed up.

Here at AWCO we think the charm is in the contrast. The Santos began life as a practical wristwatch for aviation, created by Louis Cartier for Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904, yet this Carrée version from the eighties feels every bit like a piece of jewellery. The brushed yellow gold case, exposed screws and angular lugs give it that unmistakable Santos architecture, while the black leather strap keeps the watch elegant and easy to wear.

The white dial is classic Cartier: Roman numerals, an inner minute track, blued hands and a discreet date window at three o’clock. The square dial opening sits beautifully within the rounded yellow gold case, giving the watch a layered, almost framed look. From the side, the cabochon-style crown adds that small touch of Cartier theatre we always like to see.

Inside is the automatic ETA calibre 2671, a compact movement that suits the proportions of this 29 mm case nicely. This example is fitted to a leather strap and closed with a double Cartier clasp, giving it a complete and very wearable feel on the wrist.

There is also a lovely cultural side to the golden Santos. The model has long carried a certain eighties confidence, helped along by its association with Wall Street and the fictional character Gordon Gekko. This Ref. 2960 has that same energy: elegant, graphic and quietly bold.

A golden Santos with proper Cartier charm and just the right amount of attitude. Come see it for yourself at Reestraat 3, Amsterdam.

Year

1985
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€ 11.900

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Brand Cartier
Diameter 29 x 29 mm
Reference 2960
Bracelet/strap: Leather
Year of production (circa) 1985
Buckle/clasp Cartier, Double
Material 18k Yellow gold
Lug Width 18 x 14mm
Crystal Acrylic
Set Content Watch only
Dial color White
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
Movement Automatic

Amsterdam Pocket Watch Company. Or Amsterdam Women’s-only Watch Company. Two alternate realities that could have been, if it weren’t for Louis Cartier. Many of our brands can lay claim on important horological innovations, but Cartier is the one that started the wristwatch game for men with the Santos.

The Brazilian dandy Alberto Santos Dumont inquired with his friend Louis Cartier about a better solution for telling time while flying. His pocket watch was rather cumbersome in flight. Louis Cartier designed a flat, square watch for him in 1904: the Cartier Santos.

While, for a long time, watches were used for navigation, this was not yet the case for dear old Santos. His flight, the first to ever be caught on film, lasted for only 21 seconds. Not a lot of navigation required there! He was wearing the world’s first men’s wristwatch though.

The Santos went into large-scale production in 1911, fitted with a Jaeger caliber inside. The cases came in platinum or gold and the Santos came on the very first ever folding clasp, fitted to brown or black leather straps.

The 1970’s Quartz crisis and Audemars Piguet’s brilliant answer in the Royal Oak, triggered Cartier to morph the Santos into a modern sports watch. A steel version on an integrated steel bracelet was introduced in 1978, the Santos de Cartier. A more rounded, quartz powered Santos Galbée was launched in 1987. Multiple variations on the theme were launched since. If it is the classical look you are after, the Santos Dumont remains most faithful to the very first Santos from 1904.

While the Santos debuted as the tool-watch for men. It has aged into a classical, more dressy watch for men and women alike. As we are slowly but surely moving away from gender-specific watches, the Santos is a prime example of a watch for everyone. A design classic with a story that will surely captivate your audience, next time you have drinks with friends.

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.