Cartier Santos Carrée Steel Ref. 2960 from 1990s

Cartier Santos Carrée Ref. 2960 – The Quintessential 1990s Santos in Steel

A timeless Cartier icon, the Santos Carrée Ref. 2960 embodies the elegance and refinement that has defined Cartier’s watchmaking heritage for over a century. This 1990s execution in steel, with its perfect balance of angular geometry and fluid bracelet integration, remains one of the most recognizable Cartier designs ever produced. With its crisp Roman dial, sapphire cabochon crown, and iconic screw-set bezel, this Santos captures the maison’s unique blend of jewelry-like craftsmanship and horological prestige.

Case & Design – Bold Lines, Iconic Presence

The 29x41mm stainless steel case wears with confidence while remaining refined enough for everyday elegance. Its angular profile, softened only by Cartier’s meticulous finishing, is punctuated by the polished screws that adorn both bezel and bracelet – a design signature instantly identifiable as Santos. The case remains sharp, retaining its original proportions, and is fitted with its original Cartier sapphire crystal, offering both clarity and authenticity.

The case back proudly bears the visible serial number, attesting to its originality and provenance.

Dial – White Lacquer Perfection with Roman Flair

At the heart of the watch lies Cartier’s unmistakable white lacquered dial. Adorned with bold black Roman numerals and a chemin de fer minute track, it exudes the maison’s classic Parisian design language. The dial remains in excellent condition, free from blemishes, allowing the crisp typography to shine. Completing the composition are Cartier’s signature blued steel sword hands, which dance with light in deep blue reflections.

Crown & Crystal – Cartier Signatures

No Cartier is complete without its sapphire cabochon crown. This reference features the maison’s original blue sapphire crown, set against the steel case for a refined touch of jewelry craftsmanship. Together with the sapphire crystal, these elements enhance the watch’s timeless identity.

Movement – Cartier Calibre 076

Inside beats the Cartier Calibre 076, a reliable automatic movement that has been recently serviced and runs flawlessly. Known for its robust architecture, this calibre ensures precision and ease of maintenance, making it as practical as it is beautiful.

Bracelet – Comfort and Fit

The watch comes on its original integrated steel bracelet, with an additional link included (not pictured). The bracelet offers a wrist size of approximately 17.5–18cm, ensuring comfort while maintaining Cartier’s seamless aesthetic flow from case to bracelet.

Condition & Collectability

This Cartier Santos Carrée is offered in stunning overall condition. From the pristine dial to the sharp steel case and well-preserved bracelet, every detail speaks to careful ownership and respect for its heritage. For collectors, originality is key – and here, every element from crystal to crown to bracelet is authentic Cartier.

Specifications

• Reference: 2960

• Case: 29x41mm stainless steel, screw-set bezel

• Crystal: Original Cartier sapphire crystal

• Crown: Original Cartier blue sapphire cabochon crown

• Dial: White with black Roman numerals, blued steel hands

• Movement: Cartier Calibre 076 automatic, serviced

• Bracelet: Original integrated steel, fits ~17.5–18cm, with extra link included

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition, full originality

Why This Watch?

The Cartier Santos Carrée Ref. 2960 embodies everything collectors love about Cartier: timeless design, impeccable finishing, and iconic details that transcend fashion. Its balanced proportions and enduring style make it a versatile piece – equally at home under a shirt cuff or as a statement of understated luxury on the wrist. For those seeking a vintage Cartier with both daily wearability and collector appeal, this Santos is a quintessential choice.