Perhaps one of the most legendary timepieces ever, the Cartier Santos is the watch we must thank for the modern horology industry that we all know and love. Designed in 1904 as the first-ever pilot’s watch and thus the first-ever tool watch, the Cartier Santos has continued to push boundaries ever since it was strapped to the wrist of famous aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. As the story goes, Alberto asked Louis Cartier for a wristwatch that he could wear while flying as it would be so much more practical than his using his usual pocket watch while also trying to control his plane. Evolving through time like most pieces of design, the Cartier Santos has been characteristically fluid in its unique ability to encapsulate the aesthetic zeitgeist of whatever era it finds itself in. As such, Cartier released the Cartier Santos in 1978 to capitalize on the growing market for angular integrated bracelet watches thanks to the popularity of the Royal Oak, Nautilus and other such watches. With its integrated bracelet, exposed screws, angular design, raised polished bezel, distinctive bracelet and classical Cartier dial, the Santos was a success and since then has continued to grow as a collection. The Santos Galbee that we have here features a beautiful 18kt yellow gold construction alongside a stunning white dial with Cartier signature design elements. With its svelte proportions and a tasteful balance between its gold construction and white dial, this Santos Galbee demonstrates Cartier’s strengths as a design institution. Offered as a ladies model, this Santos Galbee measures 24mm in diameter and 36mm lug-to-lug case design, which allows it to wear with a beautifully understated manner thanks to the increase in watch sizes over the decades since its introduction.

Offered in very good condition, this watch has developed a warm patina across its 18kt yellow gold case and bracelet, and its dial is free from any significant damage. Its bezel, case, and bracelet feature obvious signs of wear throughout such as various small scratches and dings. The lug on the bottom right has a deep gouge, and the bezel screw at 1 o'clock may have been replaced in the past. The watch can fit a wrist of approximately 6 1/4" in diameter.

A beautifully elegant watch and the precursor to the Santos Galbee, the Santos we have here has the best of both Cartier worlds with its stunning construction and automatic movement.