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

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Few watches capture Cartier’s ability to unite elegance and practicality as convincingly as the Santos. Founded in Paris in 1847, the maison established its reputation through exceptional jewelry before helping shape the future of the wristwatch with a design born from the demands of early aviation. In 1904, Louis Cartier created a wristwatch for his friend, Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to read the time without reaching for a pocket watch while flying. Among the earliest purpose-built men’s wristwatches, the Santos paired a distinctive square case with exposed bezel screws, establishing a design language that remains unmistakably Cartier more than a century later. Introduced commercially in 1911, it brought this practical innovation to a wider audience. The Santos entered a new chapter in 1978, when Cartier reimagined the design in stainless steel and yellow gold with an integrated bracelet. Known as the Santos Carrée, this interpretation brought a sportier sensibility to the collection while preserving its essential elegance. The angular case, flat bracelet links, and exposed screws gave the watch a purposeful, architectural character, with the warmth of yellow gold providing a distinctive contrast to the steel. This 1980s reference 2961 embodies that balance beautifully. Its automatic movement and two-tone construction offer everyday versatility, while the crisp geometry distinguishes the Carrée from the softer contours of the later Santos Galbée. Connecting the pioneering spirit of the original Santos with the integrated-bracelet identity of its modern descendants, the reference 2961 holds a compelling place in Cartier’s history and feels just as relevant on the wrist today. SPECS Stock # CTRSC2961-2 Brand Cartier Style Santos Carrée Model 2961 Serial C01XXXXX Size Men's / Unisex Material 18K Yellow Gold / Stainless Steel Dial White Roman "Swiss Made" Millimeters 29 x 41 Bracelet Cartier Two-Tone Flat-Link Bracelet CASE & BRACELET The classic two-tone case is in excellent condition, exhibiting light signs of use and minor evidence of prior polishing, with the original angles and dimensions intact. The 18K yellow gold bezel exhibits minor wear, with no notable dents or damage present. The case retains its original faceted sapphire crown. The case back retains factory engravings and features some wear. The original Cartier two-tone flat-link bracelet is in excellent condition, showing no stretch, and fits up to a 7-inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The white Roman numeral "Swiss Made" dial is likely an early service dial and remains in flawless condition, showing no cracking or damage. The original blue hands are in excellent condition. ACCESSORIES