SJX
[Purist]
8540
Yes, to a degree
I wrote that I am indifferent to the movement in this watch because the key attraction of the Santos is not the movement, rather it's aesthetics, case and bracelet. There are other watches where the movement does matter, for example my Chopard LUC which is almost entirely about movement and not about brand, design etc.
Different watches have different qualities and I appreciate them for those different qualities. I think it is limiting to apply the same criteria to all watches across price points.
- SJX
An everyday watch - the Santos Galbee
The mythical everyday watch means different things to different people. One of my everyday watches is the Santos Galbee in steel. In fact it is one of my favourites. In no order of importance: 1. Bracelet – Humid weather in SE Asia dictates that a bracele...
Never before
Never cared for Cartier watches. The roman numerals just didn't do it for me. But your photos are good and the description of this as an everyday watch is appealing. Thanks for the review.
The bracelet is attractive.
But the lack of a 1/2 link is something that makes it a complete nonstarter. I have never had a watch that didn't need fine tuning. Even a custom link or two. But to look at? Very appealing as a classical designed dial with a modern implementation.
it is with no doubt that this watch design is one of the best...
from the house of Cartier. I should start saving up for one. Thanks for sharing Jia Xian.
Fortunately
it is accessibly priced. Not cheap but fairly accessible. And though there is no Cartier that is actually cheap or super value for money, I think this fair quite well in that respect given the case and bracelet quality. - SJX
like the bracelet
I like the santos bracelet which, unlike many others, avoid the sporty look and keeps it dressy
I agree on the bracelet
While I don't think it is a sports watch exactly, the combination of brushed links with polished screws does make it have a certain panache. - SJX
A Cartier on the wrist, a Waterman in the suitcase and money in the pocket
Looks like an elegant and successful man to me.
That's right, SJX
I remember going crazy for a San Francisco when I was planning to buy my first fountain pen a couple of years ago, just to find out it was discontinued... Just for the record: I'm still crazy...
That's a nice one
One of the more contemporary Pelikan pens. Mine is still the ultra traditional green stripe M800. - SJX
What a perfect Sunday afternoon read. You have
captured the personal side of our everyday watches with style and reminded me that it is OK to stick with favorites. I think Cartier is making some very cool design choices these days. Thanks for the very enjoyable article. Best to all, Tim
Great review
We need more of these kinds of reviews of our everyday watches. You made the case compellingly, and i agree it is a very attractive piece. Best, respo
"The fact that the movement is an ETA...
... does not bother me at all; I am indifferent to it." I could not agree more, SJX. I think a watch should first and foremost be pleasant to the eye. What beats (though it must beat ) inside it comes second.
"The watch should first and foremost be
pleasant to the eye". With all respect, I do not agree. I am often comparing cars and watches. I do not buy a car based on how beautiful it is. First I want to get a car which is really good to drive. Then I want to get an engine which is powerful and has...
You are describing an object that is functional, first and foremost
many watch collectors are not buying functional objects, first and foremost. Most people have one or two or three cars, but for someone with dozens of watches, maybe over 50, the functional aspect of the marginal watch purchase often matters less. But I d...
Yes, to a degree
I wrote that I am indifferent to the movement in this watch because the key attraction of the Santos is not the movement, rather it's aesthetics, case and bracelet. There are other watches where the movement does matter, for example my Chopard LUC which i...
Think I share your view, SJX
The only “in-house” I have (because I could only afford one in my watch-buyer life) is a JLC Reserve de Marche which movement was a big factor when I made the decision of buying a first-class watch in 2007. Nevertheless, aesthetics played a fu...
Excellent point, SJX...
The Santos case/design is what makes it iconic and not necessarily the movement in this very particular "case". ... Rolex Oyster case, case in point. Some watches, really about the movement as much as it is with dial/case design. E.g., JLC Duometre/Lunair...
Thanks for the informative user's review!
As usual, a great read. I too find the Galbee's design to be very attractive and elegant. I think it could use a little up-sizing, but it does looks bigger than it actually is (at least, it should not be a problem with moderately-sized wrists). I am not f...
Size and price
You are right, it looks bigger than it actually is. And its size gives it an elegance that is missing from the Santos 100. The retail is in the region of USD6000. Not cheap by any standard but fair, in my opinion. - SJX
Beautiful
I love how it looks peeking out from under the cuff! Not too big and not too small on your wrist. I'm guessing its the largest size since its an auto right? How large are your wrists?
Thank you for the joyful review
Dear SJX, thank you very much for confirming that this watch will be next purchase. In my opinion this watch borders perfection at least for my user profil. The perfect watch would be the Galbee in XL with the limited edition black dial with its luminous ...
A good choice
Remember to share photos once you get it! A Galbee XL with black numbers would be interesting indeed. Hopefully someone at Cartier is reading this. - SJX
Very nice watch.
As an owner of a Santos 100, I am biased in saying that I love the Santos design. I believe my watch has the same movement (2892). I have noticed that the 2892 is used in a large number of watches from many brands. It makes one think it must be a reliable...
ETA movements come in various grades
Four or five, I don't remember the exact number, with increasing levels of quality, mainly in terms of components like Glucydur balance for higher grades. The higher grades also have better timekeeping and are adjusted to more positions. Most ETA movement...
Queries
Dear SJX I have finally purchased my very first Cartier and I am very happy with it. I was wondering if you can help me? Im not so sure about the size of my Cartier Santos Galbee......and how many sizes does this style come in? and is there a way to do so...
Two men's size
XL and L. The scratches can probably be polished off, just send it to your local Cartier boutique. Congrats on the new acquisition! - SJX
Size?
SJX Im not sure if what I have is an XL or L ,can you identify this size? left the box and papers in Manila. I love your post (like watch crack). Jon
Dimensions
XL is about 45.5 x 35 mm. Based on the position of the date window I believe yours is the XL. - SJX