The integrated bracelet watch trend may be fading, but the Cartier Santos de Cartier remains a timeless icon. While not as hyped as the Royal Oak or Nautilus, the Santos has quietly built a diverse and well-rounded collection, with the latest green dial iteration being a particularly striking and elegant option.
First Impressions
The Santos de Cartier comes in two sizes, medium and large, with a comfortable curved square profile that sits like a second skin on the wrist. The brushed sides and polished bevels soften the edges, while the highly polished bezel adds a touch of flash. The signature blue spinel crown gem and polished crown guards are nice details.
The Green Dial Star
The deep evergreen sunburst dial is the star of the show. This rich, warm hue is a welcome change from the trendy green shades we've seen lately, and it fades to near-black at the edges for added depth. Roman numeral indices and a printed square rail track provide excellent legibility, while the polished Roman sword hands and simple needle seconds hand add a touch of sophistication. The lack of lume on the indices and hands is a bit of a miss, but it's not a dealbreaker.
Reliable Calibre 1847 MC
The in-house Cartier Calibre 1847 MC powers the watch. This reliable movement, based on the ETA 2892, offers 42 hours of power reserve and beats at 28,800 vph. While not visible through the solid caseback, it's a proven workhorse that gets the job done.
Comfortable and Functional Bracelet
The Santos de Cartier is known for its comfortable and easy-to-use bracelet. The SmartLink system makes sizing a breeze, and the QuickSwitch system lets you easily swap to the included green alligator strap. However, the lack of on-the-fly adjustment in the butterfly clasp is a bit disappointing at this price point.
A Timeless Option at a Fair Price
With its versatile design, timeless appeal, and readily available availability, the Santos de Cartier is a great option for those looking for a luxury watch that won't break the bank or require a years-long waitlist. Whether you love the green dial or prefer another option, the Santos is a watch that will never go out of style.
In conclusion, the Cartier Santos de Cartier Green Dial is a striking and elegant addition to the Santos family. With its comfortable design, reliable movement, and versatile strap options, the Santos is a great choice for those looking for a timeless luxury watch.
