page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

Cartier Santos Octagon 2965 - Two-Tone Grey "Ghost" Dial

Trade In
Details
An Uncommon Shape For A Foundational Watch
The Santos is one of the most significant models in the history of the wristwatch, a design born from functional necessity for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. While the classic square case is its most recognizable form, Cartier experimented with the design throughout the 1980s. The Octagon was a direct result, softening the sharp corners of the original into a more geometric, less severe silhouette that captured the era's design language.
The Allure Of A Patinated Dial
What elevates this specific example is its "Ghost" dial. The original dial surface has developed an even and consistent patina, shifting its color to a uniform, vertically brushed grey. This is not damage, but rather a natural aging process that creates a unique character. It turns a classic sports watch into a one-of-a-kind piece. For collectors who prioritize nuance, a dial like this is far more interesting than a standard factory-fresh example.
Excellent Case And A Well-Preserved Dial
This watch is in excellent condition. The steel case is sharp, well-defined, and appears unpolished. The two-tone steel and 18K gold bracelet is in very good shape, showing minimal stretch for its age. The dial is the main attraction, with its desirable and even "ghost" patina fully intact. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
A Softer Take On A Sport Classic
This Santos Octagon is for the person who understands the history of the model but wants a version that stands apart. The octagonal case and two-tone finish make it exceptionally versatile, while the unique dial provides a constant point of interest. It offers a more subtle take on a foundational sports watch, carrying all the heritage of the Santos name in a configuration that is anything but common.
Key Specs
Reference: 2965
Model: Santos Octagon
Era: 1980s
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 30mm
Bezel: Steel
Bracelet: Two-Tone Steel & 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet Length: Fits up to 6.75in
Dial: Grey "Ghost" Dial with Vertical Brushed Texture
Metal: Stainless Steel & 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 1591

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!!!