Created by Louis Cartier in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Santos de Cartier watch was the first modern wristwatch. Its signature design, with visible screws and a daring square silhouette, has adapted effortlessly to the times since its creation – while staying true to the watch’s boundary-breaking inspiration.

The design of the Santos de Cartier watch epitomises Cartier watchmaking, drawing on the concept of form, a taste for minimalism, the precision of proportions and finally, an eye for detail.

Simplicity. Practicality. Innovation. These were the three major principles of Alberto Santos-Dumont, the aviation pioneer. Every single one of his projects was guided by the desire to make further progress. In 1904, Louis Cartier granted the wish of the famous aviator: to be able to tell the time while flying. He revolutionised watchmaking by creating the first modern watch designed to be worn on the wrist.