The history of this Cartier Santos Galbée
The history of the Cartier Santos watch began in 1904. Aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont asked his friend Louis Cartier to design a timepiece that could be read whilst in flight without letting go of the controls. This request led to the creation of one of the first men’s wristwatches. Its square design broke with the aesthetic norms of traditional round pocket watches. The visible screws on the bezel were inspired by industrial architecture and the rivets of the Eiffel Tower. The Galbée variant subsequently softened the angles of this silhouette. This version, reference 187901, hugs the wrist with a curve designed to offer a comfortable and discreet fit.
Case, movement and strap of this Santos Galbée
The two-tone case measures 29 millimetres in diameter and 41 millimetres in length. It combines brushed stainless steel with an 18-carat yellow gold bezel featuring a mirror-polished finish. This bezel is secured by eight screws. The matt ivory dial features black Roman numerals. The manufacturer’s signature is incorporated into the crossbar of the number 7. The railway-track minute track helps to organise the display of the time beneath a flat sapphire crystal. A square date window displays the date at 6 o’clock. The blued steel sword-shaped hands match the colour of the cabochon set on the octagonal crown. The watch is powered by the Calibre 87 quartz movement. The integrated steel bracelet features the same yellow gold screws and fastens with a concealed folding clasp.
Why this Cartier watch
This two-tone model epitomises the watch design of the 1990s and 2000s. The Grand Modèle size offers proportions suited to a unisex wrist. The reliability of its quartz movement ensures it can be worn daily without the need for manual adjustment. The Galbée line is distinguished by the seamless integration of its bracelet into the case. This historic model is no longer available in official boutiques. This pre-owned piece offers the chance to acquire a case with structured lines and a sophisticated contrast of materials.
Contents and condition
This watch comes with its original red Cartier presentation box. The watch has undergone a full polish in preparation for sale. The contrast between the brushed steel and polished gold has been revitalised. The case and bracelet are in excellent condition and the links remain in good shape.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch. 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.
* Very good condition – watch has been previously worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
