Cartier
Santos
2 of 2 shown · every piece in our Downtown LA showroom
Shop pre-owned Cartier Santos watches in Los Angeles, from the Santos 100 to modern skeleton models. Every used Cartier Santos here is in our Downtown LA showroom and was checked by our team before listing. Buy online with free insured US shipping, or see the square case and exposed screws in person at 650 S Hill St, Suite A8, Monday to Saturday.
Watches
About Santos
About the Cartier Santos
Louis Cartier designed the Santos in 1904 for the Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to read the time without taking his hands off the controls. It's one of the earliest wristwatches designed for men. Its square case, with visible screws on the bezel, has been the model's signature ever since.
Santos generations
Steel-and-gold Santos and Santos Galbée
From the late 1970s Cartier made the Santos in steel and gold with a matching screwed bracelet. Both quartz and automatic versions exist, so check the listing.
Santos 100
Launched in 2004 for the model's 100th anniversary, the Santos 100 has a larger, more sculpted case and was often sold on a leather strap. It is a bigger watch than older Santos models, so check the listing's dimensions.
Santos de Cartier (2018 onward)
The current line added Cartier's QuickSwitch system for changing straps without tools and SmartLink for adjusting the bracelet length. Skeleton versions show the movement through an open dial.
Santos-Dumont
A separate, thinner and dressier line, usually on a leather strap. It shares the name but not the sport-watch build.
What to check on a used Santos
Screws. Look at the bezel and bracelet screws for tool marks or replacements.
Brushed and polished surfaces. Santos cases mix finishes. Heavy polishing blurs the line between them.
Bracelet. Check for stretch, and make sure any extra links that come with the watch are listed.
Case markings. The model reference and serial on the caseback should match the model and size.
Cartier Santos FAQ
What's the difference between the Santos and the Santos-Dumont?
The Santos is the sport model with an integrated bracelet option and exposed screws. The Santos-Dumont is a slimmer dress watch, usually on leather.
Is the Santos 100 the same as the current Santos de Cartier?
No. The Santos 100 (2004) came before the 2018 Santos de Cartier, which introduced QuickSwitch straps and the SmartLink bracelet.
Are skeleton Santos watches automatic?
Not always. Some skeleton models are manual-wind. Each listing states the movement, and you can ask us about any specific watch.
Does it matter if a Santos has no box or papers?
It affects value more than authenticity. Each listing says what's included, and we check the watch itself before it's listed.
Can I see it before buying?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome Monday to Saturday, 10am–5pm. Call (213) 505-1874 to confirm the watch is in the showroom.
Watch LA is an independent dealer and is not affiliated with or authorized by Cartier.