WHY WE CURATED IT: A historically important Cartier. Up until this watch, all Cartiers were gold/platinum. First released in 1978, this was their first-ever steel watch. But old habits die hard, and we are glad, as this retains gorgeous solid 18K gold bracelet screws and bezel. 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. Thought you might like a blocky square watch that’s still somehow elegant? This one’s for you. In fantastic condition and with hard-to-come-by original box and papers!
CONDITION: 9/10 with sparing signs of wear. Appears to have been previously lightly refinished but without excessive rounding and still with broad case flank bevels. Some toolmarks on the bezel screws but nothing we’d lose sleep over. Crystal, dial, hands and cabochon are clean. Caseback engravings deep and clear. Bracelet has zero stretch. Movement in excellent health with above-spec power reserve, low beat error, strong amplitude and accurate to within ±10 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.
