Cartier Santos-Dumont XL Rose Gold Collection

Timeout · 2023-11-25T19:19:09Z

Discover why the Cartier Santos Dumont XL in rose gold, featuring a Piaget ultra-thin caliber, is a collector's choice. Timeout shares his journey.

Timeout

WPS member · Cartier forum

25 replies6016 views3 photos

Timeout's journey to finding the perfect Cartier illustrates a common dilemma for collectors: balancing historical reverence with modern wearability. His detailed account of acquiring the Santos Dumont XL in rose gold, after years of searching, offers valuable insights into Cartier's diverse offerings and the nuances of choosing a timepiece that truly resonates. This article explores why the Santos Dumont XL, with its distinctive design and notable movement, stands out as a compelling choice for discerning enthusiasts.

25 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

A “Must de Cartier” Tank was my first purchased real watch in the early ‘80’s. It died a death in the 90’s - humidity got to the dial and quartz movement. I tried a Tank Solo for a while - but for some reason the steel back and quartz movement bothered me way more than it should have, so it found its way to my son as his “go to” dress watch.

Over the last 10 years I’ve been struggling to find a Cartier to add to my collection - too large, too small, too narrow - the excuses were endless. I really wanted to love the Tank LC a few years back - too small for my more modern sensibilities. Then the Tank Cintree in platinum - too delicate.

For some reason I hadn’t paid attention to the Santos Dumont - until earlier this year. The rose gold and silver dial - together with the grey strap jumped out of the display case and caught my eye. A simple “two hander” is always a versatile option so I couldn’t be happier with the choice. While the Tank gets the brand kudos, it’s interesting that the Santos Dumont came first - in terms of men’s wristwatch and a pilot’s watch at that.

The Cartier branded, Piaget ultra-thin calibre 430p is beating away at 3 Hz - hidden away behind the rose gold case back. It’s quite a beauty in its own right - and knowing it’s there makes it all the more pleasurable to wear - although I’ll never likely get to see it. With its 38 hour power reserve the good news it that it only takes about 5 turns of the crown to fully wind 🤣.

Key Points from the Discussion

The Santos Dumont XL utilizes a Piaget ultra-thin calibre 430P movement, a detail that adds significant horological value and is appreciated by collectors.
The XL size of the Santos Dumont is not excessively large, offering a contemporary fit while smaller options remain available for those preferring more classical dimensions.
The combination of blue hands with a warm gold case is a visually appealing design element that enhances the watch's aesthetic.
Many collectors share the challenge of finding the ideal case shape and size within the Cartier collection, making Timeout's experience highly relatable.
The Santos design, compared to the Tank, often evokes a greater sense of excitement and distinctiveness among collectors.

The Discussion

hora12reborn

Nov 25, 2023

Congratulations. Good looking.

Timeout

Nov 26, 2023

It’s a classic.

So glad I was finally able to find something from this great manufacture.

Timeout

Nov 26, 2023

I won’t argue with that assessment!

patrick_y

Nov 27, 2023

It's a beautiful design! I like the design!

Thank you for mentioning that it comes with a Piaget caliber. I didn't know this detail. But I'm glad to see they put in a nice Piaget movement! Hey! New Business Plan for Cartier, soon they can put in Vacheron Constantin movements into their watches as well! They have in their history!

FabR

Nov 25, 2023

Congrats on this exquisite new entry --- and thanks for a very interesting (and useful) introduction! Enjoy.

Timeout

Nov 26, 2023

You’re welcome. Happy to have a Cartier in my watch box - it’s been a long time coming!