The history of this Cartier Santos Galbée
In 1904, Louis Cartier designed the first watch intended to be worn on the wrist. He was responding to a request from the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who found it difficult to read the time on a pocket watch whilst in flight. This creation features exposed screws inspired by the rivets on aeroplane fuselages. Reference 166930 carries on this heritage in a version introduced in the late 1980s. The design incorporates an ergonomic curve to hug the wrist. This development offers enhanced comfort whilst retaining the Maison’s geometric design codes.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Santos Galbée
The two-tone case combines stainless steel with an 18-carat yellow gold bezel secured by eight polished screws. Measuring 24 mm in width, it is suited to slender wrists. The profile of the case extends into an integrated bracelet with brushed links punctuated by gold screw heads. The hexagonal crown is set with a cabochon-cut blue synthetic spinel. Protected by a sapphire crystal, the matt white dial features 12 black Roman numerals. The ‘VII’ date display conceals the secret signature. Two blued steel sword-shaped hands trace the central railway track. The solid caseback houses a quartz movement offering a power reserve of approximately 3 years.
Why this Cartier watch
The combination of yellow gold and steel marks the return of the two-tone aesthetic. This model features understated proportions, making it a practical, everyday timepiece. The market is seeking out these smaller-sized pieces for their wearability. The curved profile provides a visual balance that contrasts with the clean lines of the square case. This variation allows a historic design to be incorporated into a collection.
Contents and condition
This watch comes with a The Swiss Collector presentation box. The strap is adjusted to fit a wrist of 15 centimetres. The case and strap show signs of wear. These marks are concentrated on the yellow gold bezel. The watch remains in good overall structural condition. A full repolish can be carried out on request to remove these marks prior to sale.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. This model comes with a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been previously worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, signs of wear, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
