Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier stands as one of the most storied names in luxury watchmaking — a house that has shaped both jewellery and horology for nearly two centuries. The Santos-Dumont pays direct tribute to the very origin of the Santos story: created in 1904 by Louis Cartier for his friend, Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, it is widely regarded as one of the very first purpose-built wristwatches ever made. The Santos-Dumont line keeps that original, flatter and more elegant silhouette alive, distinct from the sportier integrated-bracelet Santos.

The Cartier Santos-Dumont XL, reference WSSA0032, is a beautifully refined 46.6 x 33.9 mm stainless steel dress watch, remarkably thin at just 7.5 mm, with a silvered satin-finished dial featuring a subtle sunray effect, painted black Roman numerals, a railroad-style minute track and the signature blued-steel sword-shaped hands — a dial layout that is unmistakably and timelessly Cartier. The beaded steel crown set with a blue cabochon synthetic spinel adds that final touch of jewellery-house refinement. At its heart beats the manual-winding Cartier Calibre 430 MC, derived from the Piaget 430P — a wonderfully thin movement that rewards the daily winding ritual many enthusiasts genuinely enjoy. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial. Water resistance is rated at 30 metres. The watch is fitted on a navy blue alligator leather strap with a steel ardillon buckle.

This Santos-Dumont XL is in near mint condition and comes as a full set.