Cartier Santos Dumont Collection Privee 1576B
The watch that started it all, the Santos Dumont was introduced in 1906 as the first ever men’s wristwatch. Hailing from the brand-defining Collection Privee Era, the 1576 is proof of Cartier’s timeless creations that remains relevant across all time periods.
This is the Cartier Santos Dumont 1576B from the CPCP Collection. The origins of the model began in 1904, when Louis Cartier’s good friend, Alberto Santos-Dumont, wanted a wristwatch to accompany him while he was flying due to the impracticalities of the pocket watch. In 1906, he was the first ever person filmed in a flight sporting the iconic Cartier watch that was designed by Louis Cartier and the rest, as they say, is history. Among the many Cartier timepieces, the Santos is arguably their most recognizable model alongside the Tank and these two remain the fundamental references that underpin the brand’s ethos.
Highly distinct with its case shape, exposed screws and Roman numerals, the Santos is among the most famous time-only watches. Through all the brand’s innovations, the design of the Santos has largely remained the same with a faithful case size since the venerable reference 1575 and is perfectly proportioned for any wrist size. Armed with a Frederic Piguet-based 021 MC manual wind movement that allows the case to remain ultra thin, the 1576B has all the makings of a timeless dress watch.
In addition, this particular Santos Dumont was from the Collection Privee Cartier Paris, or CPCP, collection. The collection ran for a decade from 1998 to 2008 as a celebration of the brand’s historically important and timeless models. All the watches were manufactured in precious metal with a guilloche design on the dial. Highlighted by PARIS stamped directly under Cartier, CPCP Cartiers are amongst the most collectible within the brand. They have played a huge role in the revival of the brand in modern context and It speaks volumes that the brand's annual re-issue of a CPCP model is always highly anticipated.
This Cartier Santos Dumont 1576B is in very good pre-owned condition. There are noticeable hairlines on the bezel from prior wear with some obvious scratches near the 12 and 3 o’clock while the case remains very sharp with no dings or dents. The caseback engravings remain deep and clear. The dial has no signs of age. The strap has been worn but remains in reasonable condition for its age and it comes with a Cartier (non-CPCP) box, the original warranty dated 2004 as well as its original Cartier strap and yellow gold deployant buckle. The watch is in full working order.
Brand Cartier
Model Santos Dumont
Reference 1576B
Movement Manual Wind
Case 27 x 36
Case material Yellow Gold
Bracelet material Leather
Year 2004
Condition Good
Accessories Cartier Box and Original Papers
Limited No. Discontinued