Cartier Santos Carrée – Steel Automatic (Ref. 2960, Full Set, Circa 1985)
The Cartier Santos Carrée Ref. 2960 is a definitive expression of the maison’s pioneering design ethos—an icon that helped shape the modern luxury sports watch. This particular example, a full set from 1985, offers not only superb originality and condition but also exceptional provenance, complete with box, papers, warranty certificate, and service documentation, all matching serial numbers.
The Case – Steel Geometry, Timeless Proportion
Crafted in stainless steel, the 1980s Santos Carrée encapsulates the enduring beauty of Louis Cartier’s 1904 design, reimagined for a new generation. Its squared profile, exposed bezel screws, and integrated bracelet defined an era of luxury sports watches.
The case remains in very good condition, with sharp angles and well-preserved lines, retaining the architectural precision that characterizes the Carrée design. The sapphire crystal is flawless, and the blue sapphire cabochon crown—a Cartier signature—adds a final touch of refinement.
The watch wears with confident presence yet refined balance, embodying the sleek modernism of Cartier’s early steel era.
The Dial – Original “Swiss Only” Elegance
The original “Swiss only” white dial is in stunning condition, beautifully preserved with its crisp black Roman numerals, railroad minute track, and blued steel hands that shimmer with a deep, elegant tone. The minimalist “Swiss” signature at 6 o’clock confirms this as an early and highly collectible original dial configuration, untouched and authentic.
This purity of design—free from date windows or added text—highlights Cartier’s timeless commitment to restraint and proportion.
The Movement – Cartier Calibre 77 Automatic
At its heart, this Santos is powered by the Cartier Calibre 77 automatic movement, known for its smooth performance and mechanical reliability. This particular example has been recently serviced, ensuring it runs beautifully and keeps excellent time.
The automatic calibre provides practical ease of use while preserving the mechanical soul of Cartier’s early sports watches.
The Bracelet – Documented Replacement, Authentic Provenance
While the bracelet has been replaced at some point, this was done through official Cartier service, as confirmed in the accompanying documentation. The replacement is period-correct and perfectly integrated, maintaining the original aesthetic and comfort.
The Provenance – Complete, Verified, and Rare
This example stands out not only for its condition but for its complete and matching full set—including:
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Original Cartier presentation box
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Warranty and certificate with matching serial number
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Original sales documents, dated 13 December 1985
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Cartier service papers, confirming the bracelet replacement and maintenance
Such complete documentation from this era is extremely rare, offering both historical and collector value.
Key Details
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Model: Cartier Santos Carrée Automatic
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Reference: 2960
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Movement: Cartier Calibre 77, Automatic (recently serviced)
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Case Material: Stainless Steel
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Dial: Original “Swiss Only” White Dial with Roman Numerals, Blued Steel Hands
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Crown: Blue Sapphire Cabochon
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Crystal: Sapphire, flawless condition
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Bracelet: Replaced via Cartier Service (documented)
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Set Includes: Box, Papers, Warranty/Certificate, Service Papers – all matching serials
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Date of Sale: 13 December 1985
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Condition: Excellent overall – sharp case, pristine dial, serviced movement, complete set
Why This Watch?
The Cartier Santos Carrée Ref. 2960 from 1985 represents the perfect marriage of design history, mechanical integrity, and provenance. Its full original documentation, superb condition, and early “Swiss only” dial make it a standout example among vintage Santos models.
For collectors, it offers not just a watch but a piece of Cartier history—one that bridges the maison’s early 20th-century innovations with the bold, modern aesthetic of the 1980s. A complete, documented, and beautifully preserved Santos Carrée—a true gem for the discerning enthusiast.
