Cartier Santos Carrée Two-Tone (Ref. 2961), 1980s

Dealer description — Huntington Company

History and Significance The Santos Carrée represents a defining era for Cartier. By the late 1970s and into the 1980s, the Santos had evolved from its early aviation roots into the sharp, industrial-luxury icon most collectors recognize today. The Carrée, with its squared case profile and exposed screws, feels distinctly architectural. It is both dressy and sporty without trying to lean too far in either direction. Reference 2961 is one of the classic two-tone executions, pairing stainless steel with yellow gold across the bezel and bracelet screws. The white dial with black Roman numerals, railroad minute track, and blued steel hands remains one of the most recognizable dial layouts in watchmaking. The date at 3 is cleanly integrated and practical for daily wear. This example is especially appealing because the dial is free of cracks, something that cannot always be said for Santos models from this period. Additionally, the caseback retains its original red factory print intact, a small detail that speaks to careful ownership and originality. The watch is fitted on a large bracelet and is accompanied by its Cartier travel pouch. Writer’s Thoughts The Santos Carrée always feels right on the wrist. The flat case, sharp edges, and integrated bracelet give it a presence that is hard to replicate. It wears slim and balanced, and the square profile gives it personality without feeling flashy. On this piece, the clean dial really stands out. No cracks, strong printing, and deep blue hands that catch the light just enough. The intact red caseback print is one of those small collector details that makes you pause. It is the kind of thing you do not see often, once a watch has been worn and serviced over decades. Combined with the large bracelet, this is a very honest, complete-feeling example of a reference that continues to gain appreciation. Our Promise Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. This watch is offered in honest condition. Specifications Brand: Cartier Model: Santos Carrée (Ref. 2961) Year: 1980s Case: Stainless steel case with yellow gold bezel secured by exposed screws Case Size: 29mm Dial: White dial with black Roman numerals, railroad minute track, and date at 3 Crystal: Mineral Movement: Automatic movement Strap/Bracelet: Two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold bracelet, large size Buckle/Clasp: Integrated Cartier folding clasp Contents: Cartier travel pouch Condition Case: Case shows light surface wear consistent with age, with defined edges and strong brushing. The yellow gold bezel shows light marks. Caseback retains original red factory print intact. Crystal: Crystal appears clean with no visible cracks. Dial: Dial is free of cracks with strong printing and well-preserved Roman numerals. Hands: Blued steel hands appear correct and show light wear consistent with age. Strap/Bracelet: Large two-tone bracelet shows light surface wear consistent with age. Buckle/Clasp: Folding clasp functions properly and shows light wear consistent with use.