The Cartier Santos Dumont is an iconic and historically significant watch from the early 20th century. It was named after Alberto Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian aviation pioneer who was a close friend of Louis Cartier, the founder of Cartier.
This particular example is the highly desirable CPCP (Cartier Paris Collection Privee) Cartier Santos Dumont in yellow gold, Ref. 1576. The CPCP line was produced from 1998 to 2008 in a very limited number to impose the classic designs of the 10s and 20s. It is believed that the CPCP Santos Dumont was only produced 300 times.
CASE & BRACELET
The case itself is made of very well-preserved brushed yellow gold, while a polished bezel is layered on top. The caseback retains all factory engravings and trademarks in clear and clean condition. The watch comes with the factory fitted CPCP burgundy crocodile leather strap as well as the original 18k yellow gold Cartier folding clasp.
DIAL AND HANDS
The dial of the Santos-Dumont 1576 features an elaborate guilloche pattern that extends across the entire dial and gives the watch's surface an attractive visual depth. The dial also features the “Paris” stamp directly under the Cartier logo, which was only found on the CPCP line. In addition, the hands are made of blued steel and complement the crown, which is set with a blue sapphire cabochon.
