Santos de Cartier: the new small model renews an icon

To meet aviator Alberto Santos Dumont’s need for a practical watch that could be worn at any time, Cartier created the Santos de Cartier, the first modern wristwatch, which has become one of the most recognizable models in haute horology.

Today, Cartier presents a reinterpretation of this great classic: the Santos in a small format, which echoes the dimensions of the first 1904 models while maintaining its style and character. This new edition, unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025, stands out for its more compact and elegant size (27 x 34.5 millimeters), designed for greater versatility. The iconic square case, the refined soleil-effect dial, and the visible screws—distinctive aesthetic codes of this model—combine into clean, solid lines that reflect the identity of the Santos de Cartier collection.

The new Santos de Cartier small model features a high-autonomy quartz movement to ensure precision and reliability over time, meeting the needs of those who seek practicality without sacrificing style. In line with this design choice favoring smaller dimensions, this timepiece fits comfortably on both men’s and women’s wrists.

As with other models in the collection, this version comes with an interchangeable metal bracelet and leather strap. The steel-and-gold and all-steel versions are paired with a smooth calfskin strap, while the all-gold version is completed with an alligator leather strap. The discreet and functional pin buckle maintains the design’s balance.

The Santos de Cartier small model represents a coherent evolution in the brand’s history: a compact, meticulously detailed watch designed to adapt naturally to different styles and occasions. Discover it at Astrua Boutiques.