A design icon that revolutionized how we wear watches, the Santos de Cartier is the timepiece of choice for Cartier ambassador Jake Gyllenhaal – and we can see why
The first time you could see a Santos de Cartier on someone's wrist was in 1904. In fact, it was the first time you could see any modern watch specifically designed to be worn on the wrist. Created by Louis Cartier for his friend, the aviator Santos-Dumont, the Santos de Cartier was made to so that he could tell the time mid-flight.
Fast forward more than a century, and the square case with its signature eight screws has become a Cartier icon. Throughout the years, the Santos de Cartier has remained a symbol of innovation for the house, blending timeless design with cutting-edge functionality. Its clean lines and bold aesthetic embody Cartier's daring spirit, but the Santos also evolves to meet modern style demands.
With the new Cartier QuickSwitch system, wearers can easily swap between steel, gold, calf, or alligator straps to match their mood. The mechanism, discreetly located underneath the strap, integrates seamlessly with the case and is activated by a single push. In addition to this innovation, the SmartLink system allows for easy adjustment of the metal bracelet’s length without the need for tools. Each link features a push button that releases the fixing bar, enabling the wearer to add or remove them as needed.
With such a long and lauded history, the Santos de Cartier is one of the watchmaker's most beloved pieces among tastemakers. Most recently, Rami Malek has been partial to the Santos, joined by the likes of Tom Hiddleston and Tom Holland. The latest notable name that the Santos de Cartier is adding to its long list of admirers? Jake Gyllenhaal, who appears in the campaign promoting the timepiece wearing soft knitwear.