WHY WE CURATED IT: A historically important Cartier. Up until this watch, all Cartiers were full precious metal. First released in 1978, this was their first-ever steel watch. But old habits die hard, and we’re glad that this retains a gorgeous solid 18K gold bezel and bracelet screws. Carrées are also direct descendants of the Santos-Dumont: the world’s first men’s wristwatch in 1904 (created for the pioneering aviator of the same name so he could fly without dropping aircraft controls to fumble for a pocket watch). Therefore also the first pilot’s watch! Compact in size but bold in presence with flat bracelet links that catch the light. Fancy a blocky square watch that’s still somehow elegant? This one’s for you, in lovely condition, one of the best we’ve seen!
CONDITION: 9.5/10 with minimal signs of wear. Mostly shallow hairlines/scuffs on the bezel, but otherwise upright and thick with latitude for refinishing should you desire (we recommend retaining it as is for some vintage wabi-sabi charm). Broad case flank chamfers and very sharp condition overall. Crystal, dial, hands and cabochon are clean. Caseback engravings remain clear. Gen 1 bracelet has zero stretch. Movement in good health with to-spec power reserve, high amplitude, slight beat error and accurate to within ±20 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.
