Description

The present watch is the Cartier Santos Dumont “Precious Set” ref. WGSA0048, a rare and highly collectible tribute to one of the most important timepieces in horological history. Limited to just 100 pieces, this exceptional edition honors Alberto Santos-Dumont, the pioneering aviator whose request to Louis Cartier in 1904 led to the creation of what is widely regarded as the first modern wristwatch.

Crafted in 950 platinum, the case measures 33.9 mm x 46.6 mm with a slim profile of just 7.5 mm, preserving the refined elegance that defines the Santos Dumont line. The proportions, while modest on paper, offer a strong wrist presence due to the elongated case design, remaining faithful to the original aesthetic while adapting to contemporary tastes.

What immediately sets this reference apart is its striking ice blue dial, a color traditionally associated with platinum watches. The dial is further elevated by a beautifully executed wavy engraved motif in its recessed center, creating a sense of depth and movement that subtly plays with light. In a rare departure from Cartier tradition, the watch features applied Arabic numerals rather than the classic Roman signature, lending the piece a slightly more modern and instrument-inspired character while retaining its unmistakable Cartier identity. Blued steel hands complement the dial perfectly, while the crown is set with a ruby cabochon, a detail reserved exclusively for Cartier’s platinum creations.

Powering the watch is the manual-winding Calibre 430 MC, an ultra-thin movement chosen for its reliability and ability to maintain the watch’s elegant proportions. Turning the watch over reveals a specially engraved caseback depicting Santos-Dumont’s pioneering flying machine, a poetic nod to the origins of the model and its enduring legacy.

Presented as a complete “Precious Set,” the watch is accompanied by matching 18k white gold cufflinks with falcon eye inlay, reinforcing its status as both a horological object and a refined statement of style.

Cartier – Bio

Founded by Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847, the house of Cartier is the luxury jewellers by reference in France.
Jewellers of the royal family and their prominent entourage, they quickly acquired fame in Europe. Later Louis Cartier gave a second life to old watchmaking traditions with pieces like the mystery clocks, gem-set watches and other flamboyant pieces.

One of their iconic models called the Santos was made in 1904 for his friend and client the aviator from Brazil, Alberto Santos-Dumont.   Followed by other successful models like the Tonneau in 1906, the Tortue in 1912 and the famous Tank in 1919 to mention few. The brand stayed in the family until 1964 and is now owned by a Swiss watch group.