Patek Philippe
The 1916 Company luxury watches for sale
Shopping Bag

Pre-Owned Cartier Santos

The Cartier Santos is one of the most celebrated icons in watchmaking — known for its pioneering design, square case, and legacy of aviation-inspired elegance. Our curated collection of pre-owned Cartier Santos watches includes models like the Santos de Cartier, Santos-Dumont, and large and medium references in steel and gold. Each timepiece is inspected for authenticity and offered with our satisfaction guarantee, making The 1916 Company a trusted destination for collectors and first-time Cartier buyers alike.

6 Watches
6 Watches

Cartier Santos Heritage and Design Evolution

Originally designed in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Cartier Santos is widely considered the first wristwatch made for men. Its distinctive square bezel and Roman numeral dial broke with tradition, blending utility and luxury. Over the decades, the Santos has evolved to include automatic and quartz movements, bracelet and leather strap options, and models in steel, gold, and two-tone variations. Our pre-owned selection reflects this history, offering styles that span from vintage references to current-generation Santos de Cartier models with QuickSwitch bracelet systems and SmartLink sizing. Whether you're looking for a dress watch with Art Deco charm or a versatile steel model with modern functionality, the Santos continues to deliver unmatched style and reliability.

Explore the Cartier Santos Collection

The Cartier Santos redefined wristwatches when it debuted in 1904, created at the request of aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont. Its square bezel, a bold departure from round pocket watches of the era, introduced a new visual language to men's wristwear. Today, the Santos remains a pillar of Cartier's watchmaking catalog — blending utility, elegance, and a touch of daring innovation.

Signature Design and Materials

The Santos is instantly recognizable for its squared case with exposed screws, offering a seamless mix of geometry and industrial chic. The most sought-after Cartier Santos Large Model continues this legacy with a 39.8mm case in stainless steel and Cartier's quick-switch bracelet system. For those desiring a bolder aesthetic, the Cartier Santos Large Model with Green Dial adds a striking sunburst finish that shifts under light.

For a stealthier look, the Cartier Santos ADLC Black Coated Model delivers a matte black finish with a sporty edge, while maintaining the classic Santos silhouette. Medium models such as the Cartier Santos Medium Model measure a more versatile 35mm width, often preferred for smaller wrists or more traditional proportions.

The Santos-Dumont Small Model stands apart with a thinner profile and minimalist lines. With an ultra-slim case, this version pays homage to early dress watch traditions, often paired with leather straps in contrast to the bracelet-focused Santos de Cartier models.

Complications, Variations, and Comparisons

Over the years, the Santos collection has seen a range of complications including date displays, chronographs, and skeletonized movements. Most modern examples feature automatic calibers with exhibition casebacks, blending mechanical appeal with visual transparency. The range of metals — from stainless steel to gold and two-tone — allows collectors to choose a configuration that fits their wardrobe and lifestyle.

While the Santos is rooted in aviation and industrial design, it's often compared to the Cartier Tank , which leans into Art Deco geometry and dressier aesthetics. The Tank's rectangular case and cabochon crown reflect Cartier's formal side, whereas the Santos offers a sportier, more architectural statement.

Who Should Wear a Santos

The Cartier Santos is perfect for collectors who want a timepiece that bridges formal design with casual versatility. It's a match for frequent travelers, design aficionados, and anyone who appreciates the pioneering spirit of early aviation.

Our Promise of Expertise

Every pre-owned Cartier Santos watch at The 1916 Company is authenticated by our watchmakers, serviced to exacting standards, and covered by a two-year global warranty. Our concierge team is available to help you compare references, understand model generations, and locate the right fit from our global network.

Return to the pre-owned Cartier brand page for more from this legendary maison, or explore our full pre-owned watch selection to browse by complication, material, or category. We are proud to be an authorized retailer for Cartier — you can browse our new Cartier watches online or visit one of our showrooms for a tailored experience.

On the new 2018 Santos models, you can easily change the watch strap tool-free using the Quick Switch system. All you have to do is gently push a tab underneath the bracelet by the lug.
To manually wind a Cartier Santos, the crown must be pushed into the case which will tighten the spring and activate the movement. Turn the crown in a clockwise direction to wind. It's important not to overwind the spring once it's fully wound.
No, the Cartier Santos collection is not discontinued. Some models have ceased production, but there are still new releases. In 2018, for example, Cartier enthusiasts were thrilled at the reemergence of the collection. And in 2019, they added a chronograph variation and a fully lumed skeleton version to the collection.
The Santos-Dumont is typically thinner and more refined, often powered by quartz or manual-wind movements and paired with leather straps. The Santos de Cartier is more robust, usually automatic, and comes with metal bracelets and QuickSwitch technology.
While not all watches appreciate in value, the Santos' iconic status and consistent demand make it a strong choice for pre-owned buyers seeking lasting appeal. Pre-owned models in excellent condition often hold value well.
Yes. Every watch sold by The 1916 Company is authenticated by our in-house team. Service history is noted where available, and condition reports are provided upon request.
Absolutely. We offer trade-in and consignment options for qualified timepieces. Contact our Client Advisors or visit our Sell and Trade page to begin the process.
The medium typically fits wrists up to 6.5", while the large suits those preferring a bolder wrist presence. We recommend trying both if possible or speaking with a Client Advisor for tailored guidance.
Yes. Every pre-owned watch is backed by The 1916 Company global warranty, covering movement performance for two years after purchase.
The Cartier Santos is typically available in small (27.5mm), medium (35mm), and large (39.8mm) sizes. Each fits differently depending on wrist size and aesthetic preference.
The Santos collection includes models with date windows, chronograph functions, skeleton dials, and even tourbillons in rare editions.
The Santos features a square case with exposed screws and is rooted in aviation design, while the Tank is more rectangular and associated with Art Deco influences and dress wear.
Most modern Santos models are water-resistant to around 100 meters, though vintage and Santos-Dumont models may offer less protection. Always check the caseback or technical details.
ADLC (Amorphous Diamond-Like Carbon) coating provides a scratch-resistant matte black finish that gives the watch a stealthy, modern appearance.