The Cartier Santos-Dumont is more than a beautiful timepiece, it is the descendant of one of the most important watchmaking moments in history. Its story begins in 1904, when aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont confided in his friend Louis Cartier that checking a pocket watch mid-flight was nearly impossible. Cartier responded by creating a watch that could be worn on the wrist — elegant, geometric, and instantly readable.
It became the world’s first pilot’s watch, and one of the very first modern wristwatches ever made.
From Aviation Tool to Timeless Design Icon
While the original Santos was created for a daring aviator, its striking design, the clean square case, Roman numerals, exposed screws, and Parisian elegance, quickly outgrew the cockpit. Over the decades, these features resonated far beyond aviation.
Women were increasingly drawn to its aesthetic purity: its jewellery-like proportions, its architectural lines, its effortless sophistication.
Cartier recognised that the beauty of the Santos was universal, and thus began crafting refined, smaller, and more delicate versions that spoke to feminine wrists and feminine lifestyles.
A Feminine Interpretation of an Aviation Legend
The Santos-Dumont WSSA0086 is one of the most graceful expressions of this evolution.
Its 25mm steel case, satin-brushed silver dial, and blue cabochon crown honour the original 1904 design, but reimagine it through the lens of quiet elegance and modern simplicity.
The slim leather strap and quartz movement make it effortless to wear; a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary ease.A piece that honours invention. A Cartier icon.
The Cartier Santos-Dumont WSSA0086 is the elegant continuation of the world’s first pilot’s watch. A watch born in the sky, redesigned for those who move through the world with grace, confidence, and a love for timeless design.
