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 classically elegant? This one’s for you!
CONDITION: 9/10 with minimal signs of wear; just shallow hairlines and tiny nicks. The case appears to have had some light refinishing in the past, but very minimal and very well done. The bezel remains squarely upright and thick with deeply recessed screws. Case flank chamfers remain. Cabochon has a microscopic chip; not really visible to the naked eye. Dial has very subtle spidering, a lot less than common for this vintage and a sign of unreplaced originality. Caseback engravings remain clear. Gen 2 bracelet has zero stretch. Movement in very good health with over-spec power reserve, high amplitude, low beat error and accurate to within ±25 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.
