Cartier Santos Galbée Automatic Ref. 2961
Luxury Dress/Sports Watch · Cartier (Richemont Group), Luxury tier
Period: Neo-Vintage (1980s-1990s)
Type
Luxury Dress/Sports Watch
Brand
Cartier (Richemont Group), Luxury tier
Movement
Automatic mechanical, Cartier Calibre 077 (ETA 2892-A2 base), 28,800 vph, 42-hour power reserve, 21 jewels
Dimensions
29mm case diameter, 8.8mm thickness, 41mm lug-to-lug, 18mm lug width
Description
An iconic piece of horological history, the Cartier Santos Galbée seamlessly blends rugged tool watch origins with refined Parisian elegance. Featuring the distinct curved case, integrated bracelet design, and signature screwed bezel inspired by aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, this automatic reference offers timeless luxury and effortless wrist presence.
Key Features
Curved square case profile, exposed bezel screws, iconic blue cabochon crown, integrated link bracelet with screws, painted Roman numeral dial
Dial Description
White opaline dial with painted black Roman numerals, railroad minute track, blued steel sword-shaped hands
Case Material
Stainless steel with polished bezel and brushed case sides
Crystal Type
Flat sapphire crystal
Bezel Details
Fixed stainless steel bezel with signature visible screw heads
Crown & Pushers
Beaded crown set with a blue synthetic spinel cabochon
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless steel Santos bracelet with visible screw details and a concealed deployant clasp
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel case back secured by 8 screws, engraved with Cartier branding and individual serial numbers
Movement Type
Automatic mechanical, Cartier Calibre 077 (ETA 2892-A2 base), 28,800 vph, 42-hour power reserve, 21 jewels
Water Resistance
30 meters (3 ATM), suitable for splashes and light rain, not recommended for swimming or diving
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, movement outsourced and finished by Cartier
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s production
Cultural Significance
Pioneered the integrated sports watch aesthetic alongside the Royal Oak and Nautilus, defining luxury watch design for the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface scratches and wear consistent with age and regular use; case polishing appears light or unpolished, dial is clean, and crystal is well-preserved. Overall condition is Very Good.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value ranges between $4,000 and $7,000 depending on condition, presence of original box and papers, and service history
Care & Maintenance
Recommended complete service every 5 years, professional water resistance testing annually, clean bracelet with mild soap and a soft brush
Similar Watches
Cartier Santos de Cartier, Bulgari Bulgari, Rolex Datejust 36, Omega Constellation
Interesting Facts
Originally created in 1904 for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont so he could tell time while flying, it is widely considered the first men's wristwatch ever produced for daily wear.