The history behind goes something like this: 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: Vintage Cartier
MODEL: Santos "Carree"
REFERENCE: 2960
SERIAL: 25381
YEAR: 1980s
DIAL: The original, lacquered, white Roman numeral dial is in great shape. Most often times, white lacquer Cartier dials from this time period often exhibit a cracking or "spidering" in the lacquer. This one is free from any visible cracking making it much more collectable.
CASE: The 29mm x 41mm stainless steel case is in great shape and remains completely unpolished. The case shows wear from use that is even throughout.
MOVEMENT: Cartier marked ETA automatic movement. Service history is unknown. The watch was placed on a timegrapher which illustrated that it is keeping time within 21 seconds per day and has a very healthy amplitude of 309. The movement can be serviced for approximately $325 plus any parts if needed. If serviced the watch will come with a 1 year warranty.
BRACELET: The original stainless steel bracelet is in fantastic condition and remains completely unpolished. It has 20 links total and fits a wrist up to 7 inches. Additional links can be sourced. Simply inquire.
ACCESSORIES: None.
BOX/PAPERS: No.
WARRANTY: None unless serviced first at which point the watch would come with a 1 year mechanical warranty.
BANK WIRE PRICE: $4,799 shipped.
