With the aviation industry growing at unprecedented rates, one pioneering Brazilian aviator saw the need for a particular kind of tool - a pilot’s watch. So, this aviator, Alberto Santos-Dumont, went to Louis Cartier in 1904 and asked him to design a watch fit for flight. This watch became the Cartier Santos Dumont, the very first tool watch. Evolving through time as an extensive array of wonderful models, the Santos Dumont has become one of watchmaking’s most iconic designs, and is famed for creating the humble wristwatch as we know it.

The Santos Dumont reference we have here is the ref. 1575, an elegant 26.7mm x 36mm unisex variant of the objectively timeless timepiece. Featuring a polished round-edged bezel sitting atop a satin-brushed case with polished bevelling, the Santos Dumont’s case toys with light in a playful manner. Fitted with Cartier’s signature white dial, with black Roman numerals encircled by a railroad minute track and blued steel hands, the ref. 1575’s aesthetic is unashamedly classical and refined.

Overall condition of the watch is very good. Dial is near mint with little to no signs of wear. Please note, the “Swiss Made” dial is likely a service dial as the case bears French hallmarks. Bezel has some light needlelike scratches. Case and caseback have extremely fine surface abrasions, consistant with minimal use. The watch presents very well with no major dings or dents visible, save for the light wear on the bezel. Strap and gold buckle are both Cartier.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic version, shall be provided.