page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

Danny's Vintage Watches
Sign up to join our

early bird group

and to get $100 off your next order!

No thanks

Cartier Santos 2961 - Two-Tone White Roman Dial

Trade In
Details
The Original Pilot's Watch
The Cartier Santos is not just another luxury sports watch, it is arguably the first. Created in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who needed a way to check the time without taking his hands off the controls, its design was born from pure function. The square case, exposed bezel screws, and wrist-mounted form factor were revolutionary. This reference 2961 from the 1980s is the direct descendant of that original, updated for its era with an integrated bracelet and an automatic movement.
An Eighties Icon
The two-tone Santos became a definitive symbol of the 1980s, effortlessly blending the utility of stainless steel with the prestige of yellow gold. This execution, with its classic white dial and black Roman numerals, is the most recognizable version. It represents a period when Cartier perfected the luxury sports watch in its own distinct language, resisting the industry-wide trend of round cases and creating an icon that remains just as relevant today. The integrated bracelet is not just a strap but a seamless extension of the case design.
A Well Preserved Example
This example is in good overall condition. The white Roman dial and the crystal are clean and well-preserved. The two-tone case is believed to be unpolished and shows signs of wear consistent with a watch from this period. The integrated bracelet is in similarly strong form. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
A Design That Defined A Century
This is for someone who appreciates true historical significance in watchmaking. The Santos is more than just a model, it is the foundation of the modern wristwatch. This 1980s version offers a perfect entry point, combining the iconic design with the reliability of an automatic movement and the versatile style of a two-tone finish. It is a piece that feels both vintage and completely contemporary, a testament to a design that was right from the very beginning.
Key Specs
Reference: 2961
Model: Santos
Year: 1980s
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 29x41mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: Two-Tone Integrated
Bracelet Length: Fits up to 6.75in
Dial: White Roman
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel
SKU: 1094
Vintage 1980s Cartier Santos 2961 Two-Tone White Roman Dial Auto 29mm
Cartier Santos 2961 - Two-Tone White Roman Dial Sale price$6,000.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
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)

Patrick Farella
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.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!