Lot #3245
Cartier Santos Dumont 1575 Platinum Salmon Dial Limited Edition Box and Papers
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Introduction
Going down in history as one of the first tool watches ever released, the Cartier Santos was designed by Louis Cartier at the request of famed Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904, as he foresaw checking pocket watches in a cockpit becoming an issue as aviation developed. The very pinnacle of timeless design, the Santos has penetrated just about every corner of horology, as demonstrated by this 1990's-released unisex model, the ref 1575. A 27mm wide variant constructed of platinum, the ref. 1575 features a smooth round-edged bezel sitting atop a satin-brushed case with beautifully polished bevelling throughout. A remarkably slim watch, the ref. 1575 is powered by the exceptionally thin cal. 021 MC movement, which allows the timepiece to hug the wrist comfortably. Launched in 1997 and offered as a limited edition of 1997 pieces, this Santos Dumont features Cartier's signature design details like contrasting black Roman numerals within a railroad-style chapter ring and blued steel hands. The 1575's dial is exceptionally classy, in keeping with its overall aesthetic of grace, decorum and celebratory nature.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
27mm x 36mm
Model
Santos Dumont
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 021MC
Reference
1575
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1998
Condition
Excellent
Material
Platinum
Included
Watch, must de Cartier box and papers
Dial Color
Salmon
THE DIAL
With Cartier's signature design details such as black roman numerals and blued steel hands, the Santos Dumont speaks to the refined design that has enabled the French jeweler to become such an icon within the world of design. Salmon in color, this example's display is all the more special thanks to its status as an anniversary model.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring its iconic square shape, screw-studded bezel, and angular cabochon-capped crown, the Santos Dumont's construction is among the most distinctive in the industry. The majority of these 1575-1's were made in yellow gold, and so very few platinum examples like this make it to market.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case is strong, with some minor areas of wear visible with a scuff around 12 o'clock on the polished bezel, as well as some other minor areas of wear. Hallmarks and engravings on caseback are crisp and fully legible. Salmon dial near-mint with little to no signs of wear. Please note that the box that comes with the watch is for a "Must de Cartier" and does not properly fit the watch, although the consignor notes that this is the box received when the watch was purchased.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
Celebrating the Santos' 90th anniversary, this example is a collector's dream with its rare platinum construction, stunning salmon dial and complete set.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
