The vintage Cartier Santos bracelet
In 1904, Louis Cartier designed a wristwatch with a square case for the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont; the name was subsequently adopted for the Maison’s jewellery. This pre-owned Cartier bracelet is part of this lineage and dates from the 1980s. Crafted from 18-carat yellow gold, it echoes the watch’s geometric design with square links featuring bevelled edges. Made entirely of gold and set without gemstones, its appeal lies solely in the precision of its links and their edges.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
The chain features a series of openwork square frames with bevelled edges, laid flat and linked by short, polished tubular bars. This articulated construction keeps the bracelet supple on the wrist without disrupting its line, with each frame remaining aligned with the next. The cut-outs allow light to pass between the links and lend the structure a sense of lightness along its entire length. It fastens with a ratchet clasp housed in the final link, supplemented by a figure-of-eight safety catch on the side. Slim and flat, the bracelet can be worn on its own or alongside a watch.
Why choose this second-hand bracelet
This 1980s design is no longer featured in the Cartier catalogue, where Santos chains now feature elongated links and a lobster clasp. The second-hand market offers access to a vintage piece, signed and hallmarked in France, at a lower cost than a new 18-carat gold chain from the House. More intricately constructed than a forçat link, its succession of frames and bars gives the wrist a graphic silhouette similar to that of the watch from which it takes its name.
Contents and condition
The bracelet bears the Cartier signature, the 750 hallmark, an individual number and the eagle’s head, the French hallmark guaranteeing 18-carat gold. It measures 20 cm in length, with a link width of approximately 5 mm. Our artisan jeweller has polished and inspected it prior to sale. It is supplied in a The Swiss Collector box, without a Cartier case or certificate.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this bracelet, which is covered by a 12-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.
* Refurbished – The piece has been polished and inspected by our master jeweller, who has restored it to its original lustre.
