Watches & Wonders 2021: New Santos de Cartier And Santos-Dumont
Setting quite substantial watches with diamonds is always a bold idea. The square shape, solid bracelet, and prominent steel screws are what define the Santos de Cartier. I have this feeling that to make the entire design even more outstanding only diamonds were missing. That was, of course, until now…
New Models From The Santos de Cartier Collection
The French brand expands its Santos collection with three new timepieces. However, the pure asceticism of the case is gone, usurped instead by a glittering case encrusted with 206 brilliant-cut diamonds. The beautifully shaped concept comes in three different variations.
The first one, my favorite, a stainless steel watch with a steel sun-brushed dial, Roman numerals in black and blue swords hands. This piece is accompanied by a steel bracelet and a calf, burgundy leather strap. The second steel model is less obvious. Mostly due to its blue sun-brushed dial and steel hands adorned with Super-Lumiova for super visibility. And, finally, the last one — a two-tone Santos with gold-tone sun-brushed dial and blue swords hands give us such a vintage vibe. Each Santos gets an additional strap. The Quick Switch system makes changing a bracelet into a strap or contrariwise so easy. For me, the diamond-pavé Santos is such a bold look. Even though the case diameter is not so huge as it measures only 41.9×35.1mm it feels substantial. The new models house the automatic 1847 MC movement. It beats at 28,800vph and has a 40-hour power reserve. The prices are varied, ranging from €10,000 to €12,700.
Two Limited Santos-Dumont Watches
Of course, the watch industry would be sadder if Cartier had not released the new limited editions. Luckily this year we can admire two limited editions of Santos-Dumont. The first one is more limited (only 100 pieces) than the second (500 pieces), but is also made of a more valuable material — platinum. Another cool fact is that it comes with a special box and with white gold cuff links. Personally, I think the proportions of the Santos work much better in smaller styles. Unluckily for me, these two models have extra-large cases measuring 46.6×33.9mm. Nevertheless, watch enthusiasts who prefer bulky concepts can enjoy the refined level of finish, quality, and attention to detail. Find out more on the Cartier website. The retail price for the platinum Santos-Dumont is €25,000.