126 Cartier An impressively rare and attractive, Santos, automatic wristwatch in platinum, with diamond-set bezel.
Estimate: € 15.000 – 30.000
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- Model Santos
- Year Circa 1990s
- Reference 901
- Case Material Platinum and diamonds
- Case Number 03'701
- Bracelet Material Platinum Cartier bracelet, approximate length 165mm
- Movement Automatic, 17 jewels
- Dimension 24mm width x 24mm length
- Signed Case, dial and movement
Few watch designs can claim true icon status; the Santos is unquestionably one of them. Born in 1904 from the friendship between Louis Cartier and Alberto Santos-Dumont, it helped define the modern wristwatch. Over a century later, its geometry remains instantly recognizable: a square case with softened corners, visible screws and an integrated bracelet that feels architectural rather than ornamental.
This example takes that familiar silhouette and renders it in platinum, immediately changing the conversation. At 24 mm, it is intimate in scale yet substantial in presence, the weight of the metal offering a quiet but unmistakable gravitas. The bezel is set with brilliant-cut diamonds, echoed by diamond-set indexes on the warm champagne dial, creating a refined interplay between structure and light. The first links of the bracelet continue the gem-setting, integrating sparkle into the design rather than applying it as an afterthought.
The dial itself is deliberately restrained: no Roman numerals, no excess script, just Cartier’s signature and twelve diamonds marking the hours. Sword-shaped hands maintain clarity and proportion, preserving the Santos’ utilitarian origins even in this decidedly precious execution.
Powering the watch is an automatic movement, reinforcing that this is not merely a jewel, but a true timepiece. The juxtaposition is compelling: a watch born for aviation, here interpreted through the lens of high jewelry, yet without losing its identity.
In platinum, with diamond-set bezel and dial, this Santos embodies Cartier’s rare ability to balance engineering heritage and Parisian elegance in a single, cohesive form.
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Hôtel Méridien Beach Plaza, 22 avenue Princesse Grâce
24 April - From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
25 April - From 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM