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Cartier Santos 2960 - Factory Diamond Set

Details

A rare and radiant treasure from the 1980s, this Cartier Santos Automatic Ref. 2960 is a true standout—even among Cartier’s already legendary catalog. Crafted entirely in solid 18K yellow gold, this vintage timepiece features a factory champagne diamond dial that adds a rich, elegant glow, matched by diamond hour markers, a diamond cabochon crown, and even diamond “screws” throughout the bracelet. Every detail is thoughtfully executed and fully original—including the dial, movement, case, and crown.

The 29x41mm square case sits comfortably on the wrist, with a slim, refined profile and a quickset date at 3 o’clock for convenience. The integrated bracelet features gold screws and fits wrists up to 7 inches, offering a seamless flow between the case and bracelet, with matching screw accents on both bezel and links. The drilled lug holes also allow for added versatility if you ever choose to switch straps.

What truly sets this Santos apart is not only its scarcity, but its pristine condition. The dial is flawless, free from marks or scratches, and the case and bracelet shimmer beautifully depending on the light, showing off the warmth and depth of the yellow gold. It’s rare to find a Santos in such untouched, original condition—with all parts factory and unaltered.

This timepiece is fully functional, keeps excellent time, and is ready to wear. Its bold yet classic design suits both men and women, making it a versatile and iconic choice for collectors and Cartier enthusiasts alike.

With its diamond embellishments, full gold construction, and refined vintage profile, this Santos is a statement of taste, elegance, and timeless luxury.

SKU - 816

Reference number - 2960

Crystal - Sapphire

Movement - Automatic 

Year - 1980s

Dial color - Champagne 

Case material - 18K Yellow Gold

Bracelet styles - Integrated Diamond-Set 18K Yellow Gold

Case size - 29mm x 41mm

Bezel type - 18K Yellow Gold

Key Specs
History

In 1904, Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont complained to his friend Louis Cartier that checking a pocket watch while piloting an aircraft was both impractical and dangerous. Cartier's response was to put a clock on Santos-Dumont's wrist — a square-cased watch with a leather strap and visible screws on the bezel, worn on the pilot's wrist where he could read it with both hands on the controls.

The result was the Santos, one of the first purpose-designed men's wristwatches in history. The exposed screws — which Cartier turned into an aesthetic signature rather than hiding — the square case with rounded corners, and the integrated bracelet are elements so well-conceived that they have remained essentially unchanged for 120 years.

References 1564 (Santos Galbee/Santos de Cartier), 2319, 2961 (Santos Carree), and the Santos Octagon all appear in our inventory across stainless, two-tone, and 18-karat yellow gold. Quartz and automatic movements both saw production. These are not derivative pieces — they are the original article, the watch that defined what a wristwatch could be.