Cartier Santos Octagon Ref.2966 | Steel Gold Bezel | 1980 | Automatic

The watch that invented sports luxury.

The Cartier Santos Octagon ref.2966 from 1980. Before the Royal Oak, before the Nautilus, there was the Santos. The first wristwatch designed for a man who needed to keep his hands free while flying. The octagonal case was never just aesthetic. It was a statement about what a watch could be.

This example wears a white matte dial with Roman numerals and sword hands. Look closely at the VII and you will find Cartier's secret signature hidden inside the numeral. A detail that has been there since the beginning, noticed only by those who know where to look.

Automatic movement, caliber 077 on an ETA 2671 base. Date at 3 o'clock. 30mm octagonal steel case with a gold bezel, fitted on a black pebbled leather strap with steel pin buckle. Sapphire crystal.

Good condition for a piece that is now over forty years old. Watch only, no box or papers. Some things do not need documentation.