Santos de Cartier: Petit Modele

Aug 27, 2025
2 min read

The Santos de Cartier watch is an ever-evolving idea, an emblematic design that Cartier has diversified with the creation of a small model whose dimensions echo those of the first historical versions of the watch.

This captures the essence of the Santos de Cartier watch, an icon in tune with the pioneering spirit of Alberto Santos-Dumont. Created for him in 1904, it cultivates the same sense of innovation as the aviator. At the time, it was the first modern watch designed to be worn on the wrist. The visible screws of this square watch, traditionally hidden in watchmaking, would become an aesthetic code of the collection.

With this small model in both gold and steel, all-steel or all-gold, the style concentrates on proportions. The watch cultivates the same design principles as today’s larger models: pure lines, accuracy of shape and precious details, contrasting with the industrial and mechanical aspect of the visible screws.

What’s new, aside from its dimensions (27 mm x 34.5 mm), is the sophistication of its sunray-effect dial and the integration of a high autonomy quartz movement adapted to the smaller size of this Santos watch.

This new version is as interchangeable as the collection’s larger models, with a choice of metal bracelet or leather strap. Crafted in smooth calfskin for the non-precious versions and in alligator for the all-gold model, the leather strap is fitted with an ardillon buckle that aligns the piece with the finesse of its case.