The Cartier Santos is arguably the most popular men’s dress watch today.
Cartier Santos Timeline:
- 1904 – Early History – The original Santos-Dumont is designed for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.
- 1978 – Carrée – The first Santos on a metal bracelet. Santos watches with bracelets are known as “Santos de Cartier” models while the leather strap versions retain the Santos-Dumont moniker.
- 1984 – Octagon – A ladies’-only lineup of octagonal models was popular in the 1980’s.
- 1987 – Galbée – An updated, smoother-looking update of the Carrée.
- 2004 – Santos 100 – An updated line of models celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Santos, including some particularly large variants.
- 2009 – The first Santos skeleton watches and tourbillon watches both appear. These are the first Santos models with in-house movements.
- 2018 – The Modern Santos Era Begins with updates like quick-release straps, and in-house movements across the board.
- 2019 – Updated Chronograph and Santos-Dumont models are added to the lineup.
- 2020 – Santos-Dumont XL, La Demoiselle, and Black Santos de Cartier watches are all notable additions to the Santos Catalog.
- 2021 – Diamonds and Limited Editions are added to the lineup.
- 2022 – Colorful Lacquered Options Appear. The lacquered bezels and cases are lovely, but they got discontinued after only a couple years.
- 2024 – Rewind and Dual Time – The Santos line continues to expand with more distinctive variants.
