Santos de Carter watch, medium model, mechanical movement with automatic winding 1847 MC. Steel case, 7-sided crown with synthetic faceted blue spinel, graduated green dial, polished steel sword-shaped hands with luminescent material, sapphire crystal. Steel bracelet with SmartLink adjustment system. Second strap in green alligator skin, with interchangeable steel folding buckle. Both are fitted with the QuickSwitch interchangeable system. Case width: 35.1 mm, thickness: 8.83 mm. Water-resistant up to 10 bar (approx. 100 meters/330 feet).
Origin: The Santos de Cartier, a timepiece of enduring prestige, was conceived in 1904. It was born from the innovative mind of Louis Cartier, crafted for his friend, the pioneering Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Santos-Dumont's need for a practical watch during flight, contrasted with the awkwardness of pocket watches, spurred its creation. This marked a pivotal moment, giving rise to one of the first purpose-built wristwatches and the inaugural men's wristwatch offered commercially.
Construction: This model, the Santos de Cartier Medium, reference WSSA0029, is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and enduring design. It features a robust steel case, measuring 35.1 mm, and a silvered opaline dial, protected by a resilient sapphire crystal. The heart of the watch is the Manufacture mechanical movement with automatic winding, Caliber 1847 MC, ensuring precise timekeeping. Furthermore, it boasts an interchangeable steel bracelet with a “SmartLink” adjustment system and a calfskin leather strap, offering versatility and comfort.
Utility: The Santos de Cartier excels in both form and function, embodying a legacy of practical elegance. It offers water resistance up to 10 bar (approximately 100 meters / 330 feet), making it suitable for various activities. The inclusion of an interchangeable bracelet and strap system with a steel folding buckle (for leather strap) and a deployment clasp (for steel bracelet) enhances its adaptability. Moreover, its power reserve ensures approximately 40-42 hours of continuous operation, catering to the demands of modern life.
Influence: The Santos de Cartier's influence resonates through the annals of horological history, and it has become a symbol of timeless elegance. The watch's legacy is intertwined with the vision of Louis Cartier, whose collaboration with aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904 birthed a design that continues to inspire. This design philosophy has influenced generations of watchmakers. Its enduring appeal is further cemented by its distinctive square case and exposed screws, which have become hallmarks of the brand's enduring design.
