Cartier Santos Dumont 1576B

Santos Dumont 'CPCP', Reference 1576B | A yellow gold wristwatch | Circa 2001 Cartier

Dial: silvered Calibre: cal. manual winding, jewelled Case: 18k yellow gold, back secured by 4 screws Case number: N°0176CC Closure: 18k yellow gold Cartier deployant clasp Size: 36 x 27 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Box: yes Papers: no Accessories: Cartier presentation case Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.The Cartier Santos-Dumont is a refined and elegant wristwatch that pays homage to the pioneering spirit of aviation and the legacy of Alberto Santos-Dumont. First designed in 1904, the Santos-Dumont was created at the request of the famed Brazilian aviator, who needed a timepiece that could be easily read while flying. Louis Cartier answered this request with one of the world's first purpose-built wristwatches, featuring a sleek, square case with exposed screws—an innovative and instantly recognizable design that has remained a hallmark of the Santos collection ever since. Unlike the sportier Santos de Cartier models, the Santos-Dumont embraces a thinner, more dress-oriented profile, often crafted in precious metals such as pink gold, white gold, or platinum. It typically features a hand-wound mechanical movement, allowing for a sleek and refined aesthetic. With its Roman numeral dial, railroad minute track, and signature blue cabochon crown, the Santos-Dumont embodies the timeless elegance of Cartier’s design philosophy while maintaining a direct connection to its aviation heritage.