Cartier Santos Octagon Slate “Ghost” Dial Automatic GM Ref. 2965 from 1980s

Cartier Santos Octagonal Slate “Ghost” Dial Automatic – Ref. 2965

GM (Grand Taille) – Rare Swiss-Only Patina Dial

The Cartier Santos Octagonal is one of the Maison’s boldest interpretations of the Santos lineage—architectural, refined, and unmistakably rooted in Cartier’s late 20th-century design language. This example, reference 2965, represents the desirable GM (Grand Taille / big size) configuration and features one of the most collectible dial variations: an original factory “Swiss”-signed ghost grey dial with natural patina.

Sharp, monochromatic, and effortlessly elegant, this Santos Octagon balances industrial design with classic Cartier refinement.

Case – GM Size, 30mm Presence

The stainless steel 30mm octagonal case embodies the distinctive geometry that sets the Santos Octagonal apart. The combination of brushed surfaces and polished bevels gives the watch depth and character while preserving its sharp architectural lines.

Despite its vintage origins (circa 1980s–90s), the GM size wears confidently and remains highly versatile on the wrist.

• Case size: 30mm

• Stainless steel construction

• Original Cartier sapphire cabochon crown

• Strong proportions with excellent wrist presence

Dial – Original Ghost Grey “Swiss” with Patina

The highlight of this reference is its original ghost grey slate dial, signed simply “Swiss” at 6 o’clock. This minimalist signature is highly sought after among collectors and indicates an early, factory-original configuration.

The dial shows beautiful, honest patina, enhancing its vintage charm while maintaining legibility and elegance. The soft grey tone shifts subtly depending on lighting, giving the watch a refined, understated personality.

A date window at 3 o’clock adds functionality while maintaining symmetry within the clean design.

• Original factory dial

• “Swiss” signature only

• Natural patina

• Date feature at 3 o’clock

• Steel hands

Movement – Cartier Calibre 077 Automatic

Inside beats the automatic Cartier calibre 077, recently serviced by our professional watchmaker and running excellently.

Reliable and precise, this movement ensures the watch is not only collectible but also perfectly suited for daily wear.

• Cartier automatic calibre 077

• Fully serviced

• Running excellent

• Date function

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Bracelet – Iconic Screw Design

The watch is fitted with its original Cartier stainless steel bracelet featuring the iconic exposed screw motif that defines the Santos collection.

• Fits wrists up to 18.5 cm maximum

• Integrated design for seamless wear

• Comfortable and secure

Condition & Originality

• Reference 2965

• GM (Grand Taille / Big Size)

• Original ghost grey “Swiss” dial with patina

• Date at 3 o’clock

• Automatic Cartier 077 movement, freshly serviced

• Steel case 30mm

• Bracelet fits up to 18.5cm

• All components correct and original for the reference

Specifications

Model: Cartier Santos Octagonal
Reference: 2965
Size: GM (Grand Taille) – 30mm
Era: Circa 1980s–1990s
Case: Stainless steel
Dial: Original ghost grey, Swiss signed, patina
Movement: Automatic Cartier 077 (serviced)
Functions: Hours, minutes, date at 3 o’clock
Bracelet: Original steel, fits up to 18.5cm

Why This Watch?

The Santos Octagonal remains one of Cartier’s most distinctive vintage designs. In GM size, with a rare Swiss-only ghost dial showing natural patina, and powered by a freshly serviced calibre 077, this example offers the perfect balance between collectability and everyday usability.

Architectural, understated, and genuinely uncommon — this is vintage Cartier with character and presence.