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Cartier Santos Octagonal 2966 - 18K Yellow Gold Burgundy Dial

Details

A Unique Expression Of A Foundational Design

The Santos is widely considered the first purpose-built wristwatch, created by Louis Cartier in 1904 for Alberto Santos-Dumont. It established the design vocabulary for Cartier sports watches, with its distinctive square case and exposed bezel screws. This Octagonal reference 2966 takes that iconic design and refines it, offering a distinct profile in 18K yellow gold. Paired with a rich burgundy dial, it represents a more uncommon and luxurious execution within the Santos lineage, moving beyond the standard configurations into something genuinely unique.

The Allure Of A Rich Burgundy Dial

This example stands out for its specific configuration: an 18K yellow gold case and bezel combined with a striking burgundy dial. While the Santos is a cornerstone of Cartier's catalog, dials of this color are far less common than the typical white or champagne, lending this piece a heightened sense of individuality. The octagonal bezel offers a softer, yet equally distinctive, take on the classic Santos form, completing a look that is both elegant and assertive.

Very Good Condition With Honest Details

The watch is in very good condition. The finish is great, showing some signs of wear consistent with its age. The burgundy dial is clean with no spidering, which is a key consideration for vintage dials of this type. The enamel on the rear engraving remains intact, a detail often lost on older pieces. It is presented on its integrated two-tone bracelet, complete and fitting a wrist up to 6.5 inches. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

A Bold Statement For The Modern Collector

This Cartier Santos Octagonal makes a confident statement on the wrist. It offers the historical gravitas of the Santos line with the added distinction of an 18K yellow gold case and bezel, complemented by a rare burgundy dial and its two-tone integrated bracelet. For a collector seeking a foundational Cartier that stands apart from the more common steel iterations, this piece delivers on both heritage and unique presence.
Key Specs

Reference: 2966
Model: Santos Octagonal
Year: 1990s
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 31.5mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: Two Tone Integrated
Bracelet Length: 6.5in
Dial: Burgundy
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 744

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!!!