Cartier will release a new Santos-Dumont model equipped with an ultra-thin hand-wound movement. Three models named after airplanes designed by Alberto Santos-Dumont—Le Brésil, La Baladeuse, and No. 14 Bis—will be produced in limited quantities. They will be available for pre-order from the company's online boutique from May 7, 2020.
A long-awaited mechanical model that pays tribute to a gentleman who left his mark on the history of aviation and timekeeping.
The Santos-Dumont, unveiled at last year's SIHH (now Watches & Wonders), was an excellent informal watch that combined both sportiness and formality. While the Santos has evolved over the years, this watch's return to its roots was well-received by watch enthusiasts. However, some may have felt a little disappointed with the quartz movement.
Perhaps anticipating such demands, Cartier has released several Santos-Dumont watches equipped with manual-winding movements this year. Of particular note are models named after the great achievements of Santos-Dumont, the man who inspired the creation of the Santos watch. These include the first balloon he designed, Le Brésil; the first airship he also designed, La Baladuse; and the No. 14 Bis, the first airplane to successfully fly in Europe. The company's release of models bearing each of these names is nothing but a sign of respect for this great aviator.
Surprisingly, these models share the same 7.3mm thin case as the quartz Santos-Dumont released last year. This is made possible by the ultra-thin movement, Caliber 430MC, which was featured in the Drive de Cartier Extra-Thin and caused a stir. This movement is descended from Piaget's Caliber 9P, which is synonymous with thin movements. The fact that this same movement has a history of over half a century means its reliability is guaranteed.
After his successful flight, Santos-Dumont did not seek a patent, but rather made his drawings public in order to contribute to the advancement of the world. He also readily accepted Cartier's offer to sell the Santos. He must have understood that airplanes and wristwatches were essential to modernization. His gentlemanly response prioritized altruism.
These models will be available for pre-sale at Cartier's online boutique from May 7, 2020. Each model is available in limited quantities: Le Brésil is limited to 100 pieces worldwide, La Baladuse is limited to 300 pieces, and No. 14 Bis is limited to 500 pieces worldwide.
Cartier's official website
https://www.cartier.jp
http://www.webchronos.net/features/37028/
http://www.webchronos.net/2020-new-watches/44638/
http://www.webchronos.net/features/43444/
