As John Mayer once said, "They were the iPhone 5 of their day. A GMT is like the worlds greatest app." His acknowledgement of the historical utilitarian nature behind the invention of the wristwatch.
It's true. Before the fashion statements and flamboyant illustration of money watches were created as tools. Tools invented to solve various problems the world faced at those times. There were many examples: chronographs to measure lap times, telemeter scales to measure distance, pulsometer scale to measure heart rates, GMT complications for different time zones.
The history behind the Cartier Santos is no different. It started off with a problem. Alberto Santos-Dumont required a watch that increased legibility and application while flying. Pocket watches, although popular at the time, were cumbersome. They required to be open to tell time, often had complicated dial layouts and were stowed away in pockets in between. There lack of quick access didn't help either. Cartiers answer to the problem? The first mass-produced mens wristwatch that featured a square bezel with a highly legible dial complete with the period popular art deco design. The result was a timeless classic Cartier Santos that was originally introduced on a leather strap. The design remained largely unchanged until the late 1970's where Cartier introduced an integrated bracelet. Certainly a popular watch today, we are pleased to offer this in our vintage watch shop!
ABOUT THIS WATCH:
MANUFACTURER: Cartier
MODEL: Santos
REFERENCE: 0906
SERIAL: 03xxx
YEAR: Unknown
DIAL: The original Cartier slate grey dial is in good shape and appears to be free from any staining, blemishes, patina or otherwise imperfections. The Cartier signature is adorned in gold at the 12 o'clock hour marker. The dial is completed by gold sword style hour and minute hands.
CASE: The 29mm diameter by two tone stainless steel and gold case is in fair shape. Both the stainless steel case and the 18kt yellow gold bezel present with wear throughout that would be expected for a vintage watch. The case is completed by an original blue cabochon crown.
MOVEMENT: Cartier marked ETA automatic movement. The movement has just been serviced and comes complete with a 1 year warranty.
BRACELET: The original two tone bracelet is in good shape. The bracelet just returned from being professionally refurbished and is good working order operating as it should. It presents with wear commensurate for the watches age.
ACCESSORIES: Comes with paperwork to document the recent service that was completed on the movement and 1 year warranty paperwork.
BOX/PAPERS: No.
BANK WIRE PRICE: $1,800
