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Cartier Santos 1564 - Cream Dial

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Details

The softer side of the Santos

The Santos Galbée is where Cartier took the original square Santos and rounded it just enough to make it more fluid on the wrist. Same exposed screws, same Roman numerals, but with a curved case and bracelet that feel more integrated and wearable day to day.

This example stands out for its cream Roman dial. Most Galbée models from this period lean bright white. The warmer cream tone shifts the personality slightly. It feels more vintage, more relaxed, and less clinical.

Why this configuration matters

The cream Roman layout is not the most common execution in the line. It softens the steel case and gives the watch a different presence without changing the fundamentals. You still get the classic Santos look, just with more warmth.

The integrated stainless bracelet keeps everything cohesive. Case and bracelet flow together as one unit, which is exactly what made the Galbée so popular in the first place. It wears slim, balanced, and unmistakably Cartier.

What you need to know before wearing it

Condition is good overall with honest wear. The case shows noticeable bumps and marks consistent with age. The bracelet is fair for the era and shows more wear than average but remains functional and secure. The dial has developed light patina on the metal indices, which adds character without affecting legibility. The quartz movement is running properly and keeping time as it should.

Why this watch still works

This is a straightforward Santos Galbée with some lived-in character. It is not a safe queen. It is a wearable, warm-toned version of a classic design that still does exactly what it is supposed to do.

Clean proportions, integrated steel, and an uncommon cream Roman dial that gives it a slightly different attitude while staying true to the Santos identity.

Key Specs

Reference: 1564

Model: Santos Galbée

Year: 1990s

Movement: Quartz

Case Size: 29 × 41mm

Bezel: Stainless steel

Bracelet: Integrated stainless steel

Dial: Cream Roman

Wrist Size: Fits 6.5–6.75 inches

SKU: 357

History

The Santos owes its existence to a friendship between Louis Cartier and the Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos‑Dumont.  In 1904 Santos‑Dumont complained that pocket watches were impractical while flying; Louis responded by designing a wrist‑mounted timepiece with a square case and leather strap that allowed quick reading without letting go of the aircraft’s controls .  This watch, later called the Santos, is often cited as one of the first wristwatches created specifically for men.  Cartier put the design into public production in 1911, making it among the earliest series‑produced wristwatches .Design elements of the Santos highlight both function and style.  The square case with exposed screws evokes Parisian industrial architecture, while the dial features Roman numerals and a railroad minute track for precision .  A sapphire cabochon crown and leather strap or, in later models, a metal bracelet, blend jewellery accents with utilitarian intent.  This combination of robust geometry and refined detailing set the watch apart from the round pocket watches of the era.The Santos evolved with the times.  During the 1970s Cartier reissued the model in steel and gold, reflecting a trend toward sportier, more accessible luxury .  Recent versions incorporate interchangeable bracelet systems while preserving the signature square bezel and visible screws.  Throughout its history the Santos has maintained its aviation roots, serving as a symbol of early twentieth‑century technological optimism.Collectors appreciate the Santos not only as a pioneering wristwatch but also for its enduring design language.  Its recognizable square case and exposed screws have allowed the model to remain relevant through successive revivals.  The blend of mechanical practicality and Parisian elegance continues to appeal to those who value watches that bridge the worlds of early aviation and modern horology.

Cartier Santos 1564 - Cream Dial
Cartier Santos 1564 - Cream Dial Sale price$5,500.00 USD

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4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

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5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

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2 months ago

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4 months ago

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