Cartier Santos Galbée XL 2823

In 1904, Louis Cartier gifted a watch to his good friend, the Brazilian aviation pioneer Santos Dumont. Dumont had complained about the inconvenience of using a pocket watch while flying, so Cartier designed a slim wristwatch with a distinctive rectangular shape and a manual winding mechanism. Alberto Santos Dumont preferred this watch over many others of the time, leading to a clientele that followed his taste. The Cartier Santos-Dumont became not only the first men’s watch but also the first true pilot’s watch. This marked the beginning of Cartier's iconic identity, as the spirit of the original ‘Santos Dumont’ wristwatch is reflected in other famous Cartier models, such as the Cartier Tank, Panthère, and Crash.

In 1987, the Cartier Santos was completely revamped and re-released under the name Santos Galbée. The case lost its angular shapes and received more curved and rounded lugs, making it fit the wrist better than its predecessor.

At 10 over 10, we are very charmed by vintage watches with a modest size, but we are happy to make an exception for iconic models that perfectly fit into our collection. Here we present a stunning Cartier Santos Galbée XL, reference 2823. The watch is in excellent condition with a few very light signs of use that are almost invisible and not likely to be perceived as bothersome. The 32 mm x 45 mm case remains beautifully sharp, with all the original lines and curves still clearly visible. This model was produced from the 1990s until around 2012. Although the 'XL' name suggests a large watch, it fits beautifully on the wrist thanks to the curved lugs and the integrated stainless steel Cartier bracelet. As a result, the Santos 2823 not only looks sporty but also wears as a refined piece of jewellery, suitable for any occasion. The watch features a silver dial with a date display between the 3 and 6 o’clock positions, the iconic blue hands, and, of course, the crown with the famous blue cabochon. This model is powered by the automatic 049 calibre. The watch comes with a 1-year mechanical warranty from 10 over 10.

What you need to know:
- Santos Galbée XL 2823
- Silver dial with blue hands and cabochon crown
- Integrated stainless steel Cartier bracelet without stretch, with hidden clasp
- 32 mm x 45 mm case in good condition, fits comfortably on the wrist
- Automatic movement
- 1-year warranty on the movement
- Free insured shipping within the EU

CARTIER

In 1847, the Cartier brand was founded in Paris by Louis-François Cartier, who continued the workshop of his master Adolphe Picard. In 1874, Alfred Cartier, the son of Louis-François Cartier, took over the company. However, the iconic status of the Cartier brand was not established by the directors Louis-François or later Alfred Cartier, but by Alfred Cartier’s three sons (Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier).