After receiving a small face lift earlier this year, one of the most iconic and popular Cartier watches from the 80s just got even better. Named after Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos Dumont whom Cartier made a watch for, the Santos de Cartier features a square case with curved edges and exposed screws that are unmistakable design cues of this legendary watch. Opposed to its siblings that are not skeletonized, the Santos de Cartier Skeleton is only available in the large size with a case measuring almost 40 mm wide —39.8 mm x 47.5 mm actual size. Featuring an 18K pink gold case that in certain lighting conditions it almost appears like yellow gold, the Santos Skeleton is one of our favorite watches from Cartier.
Things to Know About the Watch
The Santos de Cartier Skeleton Pink Gold Large Model ref. WHSA0008 is sold with a solid gold bracelet matching the case and one additional alligator strap in grey with the usual Cartier folding clasp. Featuring an anthracite grey skeletonized dial, the hours and minutes are indicated by pink gold sword hands while the skeletonized bridges form Roman numerals that allow for partial views of the movement.
Additionally, the bracelet has been redesigned and equipped with a 'SmartLink' resizing system and with the 'QuickSwitch' interchangeability system. By pushing a small rectangular button on the end link of the bracelet or strap, one can go from one look to the other in a matter of seconds. While the new Cartier interchangeability system is not as easy to operate as the one on the Vacheron Constantin Overseas line, this is a fantastic addition to the Cartier Santos line for those that enjoy the versatility of different looks within one watch.
Regarding the 'SmartLink' resizing adjustment system, all that it takes is pressing a small button on the back of the link to remove the pins that hold it together and do the resizing of the bracelet in a very easy and quick way.
The Movement
The Santos de Cartier Skeleton Pink Gold is not powered by the in-house automatic movement calibre 1847 MC but by the in-house manual wound movement 9619 MC. This movement composed of 138 parts and 20 jewels is exquisitely finished. While beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph, the movement provides a power reserve of 3 days when fully wound. Turning the watch over, provides full view of this exquisite movement with plenty of bevelling around the bridges and a vertical satin-brushed finish.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the Santos de Cartier Skeleton wears slightly bigger than its actual size. While the size of the watch across the case is only 39.8 mm, the watch actually wears more like a 41 mm one. Without a doubt, this is the nicest Santos de Cartier ever made; however, as far as pricing, this watch is priced too high when compared to other iconic gold watches. If you are looking to look like a true 'baller' and this will be your only full gold watch, at this price point there are way too many gold Rolexes and gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks that would trump this Cartier any day. Regardless, a beautiful watch for those that can have it all.
Sticker Price $63,500 USD. For more info on Cartier click here.
