Cartier Santos Galbee Automatic Mid-Size 29mm 2319
Ref: 2319

Specification

Points of Mention

This watch is sold with an original Cartier pouch as photographed, no original Cartier paperwork is provided with the watch. The watch comes paired on its original Cartier bracelet#, the total length of the bracelet is 20/21cm. The watch is from Circa. early 2000s and is sold in used, worn condition. Overall the condition is fantastic, the dial has even patina throughout. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.

The Watch

In 1847 Louis-Francois Cartier founded Cartier in Paris, France. He quickly established himself by catering to the elites in society. In 1903 they created their first men's wristwatch, inspired by his pilot friend Alberto Santos-Dumont, he called it the Santos. Just four years later in 1907 Cartier began a partnership with Edmond Jaeger of the prominent watch brand Jaeger-LeCoultre. Jaeger agreed to be the exclusive supplier of movements for Cartier watches. Today Cartier is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group. 

This mid-sized Cartier Santos Galbee launched in 1987 it was renamed (galbée-meaning in French curved or shapely) with refinements to the distinctive case shape and fit, for a more streamlined look. The 29mm square stainless steel case with curves that soften the boxy shape and the slender gently curved lugs perfectly support the integrated style bracelet—inspired by a square pocket watch Cartier made early on. Polished and brushed surfaces are expertly finished.  On the right side, a heptagon crown protected by crown guards with a blue cabochon inset. Its use of screws in the polished bezel and around the case was intended to simulate the screws found on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. A flat sapphire crystal protects the silver dial. The radial pattern catches the light as you rotate your wrist.

Large Roman numerals in black radiate around the inner minute track, like the Paris roads, radiating from the Arc de Triomphe.  At 3 o’clock a small date window. Elegant slim thermally blued sword hands are nicely balanced by a sweeping center seconds hand. The design takes its cues from the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s. On the reverse a screwed-down case back. Inside an Automatic ETA 2000-1, 20 Jewels, 28,800 beats per hour. Quickset date and hacking functions. This compact movement is based on the ETA 2892-A2, it is fitted with a Glucydur balance wheel, Nivarox flat hairspring for durability, accuracy, and antimagnetic properties. It comes fitted on an 18mm Cartier stainless steel bracelet with a double fold hidden clasp and screw detailing.

Personal Note

It is no secret I adore the Santos, personally owning one and this EXACT reference, I can confirm it's an incredible watch to wear and just looks incredible in all situations. Personally, I prefer the mid-size on my wrist and I have a 6 3/4inch wrists, but to each their own! Just make sure you realise that due to the case shape the 29mm wears a lot bigger.