Story Highlight
– Cartier unveils new titanium Santos de Cartier model.
– Features bead-blasted matte case for unique texture.
– Black dial variant introduces luminous Super-LumiNova elements.
– Both models powered by in-house 1847 MC caliber.
– Prices set at $11,500 and $8,650 respectively.
Full Story
Cartier has unveiled the latest iterations of its renowned Santos watch, first created in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. The challenge at the heart of this design was to achieve a blend of practicality for aviation use and stylish elegance for everyday wear. As Pierre Ranieri, Cartier’s Image, Style and Heritage Director, remarked, “In this object, in a very obvious manner, you have the two directions — practicality and elegance. That’s the source, and the source has endured because it has the capacity to evolve.”
The newest models showcase an intriguing contrast in both material and aesthetics. The Santos de Cartier made from titanium features a distinctive fully bead-blasted matte finish, which is 43% lighter and more durable than traditional steel. The case presents an understated anthracite hue and is complemented by a black spinel crown. Ranieri highlighted that the choice of a matte texture underscores the material’s ruggedness while retaining a unique elegance that distinguishes it within the luxury watch sector.
In addition, a black dial version of the Santos de Cartier has made its debut, introducing Super-LumiNova elements to the collection. This dial presents two surface finishes: a vertical satin texture within the railway track and a sunray effect on the periphery. Roman numerals and the railway track are embellished with glowing green Super-LumiNova, and the hands are also treated to enhance visibility in low light conditions.
Both timepieces are powered by Cartier’s 1847 MC automatic movement, featuring a 40-hour power reserve and a date function. This calibre is being utilised across the current Santos lineup.
The titanium model with a white dial is priced at $11,500, while the steel counterpart with the black luminous dial is available for $8,650. Both variations are set to be sold at Cartier outlets starting today.
Emphasising the theme of contrast, Ranieri noted, “On each of these novelties, playing with contrasts was aesthetically important to accentuate the bold and masculine side of these creations, and to differentiate them from the other Santos pieces.”
More than a century after its inception, Cartier continues to harness this design philosophy. The titanium variant presents a robust and industrial aesthetic, a marked shift from the brand’s traditionally polished looks. Collectors will notice the absence of the polished bezel, often cited as a point of contention in earlier Santos models. Meanwhile, the introduction of a black dial with luminous features not only serves a practical purpose but also elevates the overall design, setting a vibrant backdrop for the glowing hands and markers.
The Santos collection, alongside the Tank model, remains a cornerstone of Cartier’s offerings, instantly identifiable by its iconic square shape and visible screws. This distinct design capability allows for innovative treatments, such as the bead-blasted titanium and luminous hands, without compromising the watch’s signature identity. Currently, both models are available exclusively in a large size (39.8mm × 9.3mm, with a water resistance of 100m).
Cartier has indicated a focus on material experimentation, hinting that a medium size may eventually join the range, following the successful expansion seen with previous versions of the Santos. A medium-sized Santos de Cartier featuring a black dial could emerge as a strong contender in future collections.
**Specifications:**
– **Brand**: Cartier
– **Models**: Santos de Cartier Titanium LM; Santos de Cartier Black Dial LM
– **Reference Numbers**: CRWSSA0089; CRWSSA0096
– **Diameter**: 39.8 mm
– **Thickness**: 9.38 mm
– **Case Material**: Titanium (bead-blasted matte finish for CRWSSA0089); Stainless steel (satin finish for CRWSSA0096)
– **Dial Colors**: Anthracite (Titanium); Black (half sunburst / half satin) with Super-LumiNova accents (Black Dial)
– **Indexes**: Roman numerals
– **Lume**: Yes — fluorescent Super-LumiNova on hands (Black Dial version only)
– **Water Resistance**: 100 m
– **Strap/Bracelet**: Interchangeable bracelet and additional strap with Cartier’s QuickSwitch system
**Movement:**
– **Caliber**: Cartier 1847 MC
– **Functions**: Hours, minutes, seconds; date
– **Diameter**: 25.6 mm
– **Thickness**: 3.8 mm
– **Power Reserve**: 42 hours
– **Winding**: Automatic, bi-directional
– **Frequency**: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
– **Jewels**: 23
– **Chronometer Certified**: No (not COSC, but factory regulated)
– **Additional Details**: In-house automatic movement featuring paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus components and a soft iron shield to enhance magnetic resistance.
**Pricing & Availability:**
– **Price**: $11,500; $8,650
– **Availability**: Available from Cartier boutiques from October 7th, 2025
– **Limited Edition**: No