Cartier Santos Galbée Ladies

In the early 20th century, the aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, a close friend of Louis Cartier, faced a problem while flying his aircraft: it was impractical to check a pocket watch while keeping both hands on the controls. In response to his friend’s predicament, Louis Cartier designed the world’s first wristwatch specifically for aviators. This watch, known as the Santos, was born in 1904 – The Santos its backstory is a blend of history, innovation, and enduring elegance.

Fast forward to the mid-1990s, when Cartier offered the Cartier Santos Galbée, a timepiece like the one offered here, as a modern recreation of the original Santos design. This timepiece was a part of Cartier’s ongoing commitment to fusing traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sensibilities. The term “Galbée” in the name refers to the watch’s distinctively curved and ergonomic case design, which elegantly followed the contours of the wrist. This design not only improved comfort but also added a touch of sophistication to the watch’s appearance. Our Cartier Santos Ladies Galbée retained the hallmark features of that original Santos, including the iconic square-shaped case, exposed screws on the bezel, a wonderful Guilloché dial, and the blue spinel cabochon crown. However, it introduced a more refined and streamlined look which was perfectly suited to the design trends of the 1990’s. This Santos Galbée was scarcely worn over the past 28+ years, and therefor remains in a very good condition with sharp lines and angles, and an integrated bracelet without any stretch. Made in stainless steel with 18k yellow gold details, this watch measures 24mm x 35mm and offers a luxurious and versatile option for the lady watch collector/aficionado; This Cartier Santos Galbée remains a cherished collector’s item and a classic representation of Cartier’s enduring legacy in the world of watchmaking.

Fun fact: The case was conceived to be robust and the screws that secured the glass and its sealing were intended to recall the rivets of the Eiffel tower. Similarly, the 18k golden Roman numerals suggest the radial layout of Paris’ streets and wide boulevards (you need some imagination for that last one).  As you are accustomed to, this Cartier Santos Ladies Galbée was fully serviced according the Cartier factory specs, and the watch will be sold with our extensive 24 month warranty, including our WWH service rapport.

reference: 2423
case number: 382XXXX
year of production: ca. 1995
case diameter: 24 x 35 mm
movement: Cartier signed caliber 077
box and papers: accompanied by Cartier service pouch.

Sold