Cartier Santos Dumont Ref. 1576 Guilloche 'Paris Dial' 27mm
Brief History of the Cartier Santos Dumont
The Cartier Santos Dumont traces its origins back to 1904, when Louis Cartier designed the watch for his friend, pioneering aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. The goal was to create a wristwatch that allowed Santos-Dumont to check the time while flying—making it one of the very first purpose-built pilot’s watches and a groundbreaking step in wristwatch history. The design’s clean lines, exposed screws, and elegant rectangular case quickly became Cartier hallmarks.
Over the decades, the Santos Dumont evolved, but its DNA remained unmistakable: slim profile, art deco influences, and a blend of utility with Parisian elegance. It’s a piece that bridges the worlds of technical innovation and sophisticated design, making it a staple for collectors and style icons alike.
The Reference 1576 Santos Dumont (1990s, Paris Stamping)
The Reference 1576, produced in the 1990s, is a standout within the Santos Dumont lineage. Here’s what makes it special:
- Design & Proportions: The 1576 features the classic Santos Dumont rectangular case, celebrated for its slimness and comfort on the wrist. The case is crafted in 18k yellow gold, with the iconic beaded crown set with a blue cabochon.
- Dial Details: What sets this reference apart is the “Paris” stamping at the bottom of the dial. This subtle detail signifies that the watch was produced during a period when Cartier dials were signed with their Paris boutique location, an element highly sought after by collectors for its vintage cachet and rarity.
- Movement: The 1576 typically houses a manual-wind movement, aligning with the elegant, ultra-thin case profile and the traditional watchmaking values Cartier is known for.
- Era & Collectibility: The 1990s Paris-stamped models mark the end of an era before Cartier shifted to more globalized production and dial signatures. These watches are prized for their classic proportions, understated luxury, and unique historical context.
- Wearing Experience: The 1576 delivers a refined, dressy presence—perfect for those who appreciate subtlety, heritage, and the unmistakable flair of vintage Cartier.
Brand: Cartier
Model: Santos Dumont
Reference: 1576
Year: 1990's
Case Material: Yellow gold
Diameter: 27mm
Lug Width: 17mm
Thickness: 4.6mm
Lug-to-Lug: 36mm
Dial: Cream Guilloche
Crystal: Sapphire
Movement: Manual
Caliber: Cal. 021 MC (Frédéric Piguet Base)
Bracelet/Strap: Un-Signed Leather Crocodile
Overall Rating:
Reports
Case :
Dial :
Bracelet/Strap:
This Santos Dumont has been authenticated and evaluated by our expert watchmakers through a comprehensive 10-step process. A complete condition report is provided with your purchase at your request.
Every timepiece Greenwich Time buys and sells is carefully inspected by our in-house team of Swiss-trained Watchmakers and certified authentic before it is available for sale. With an in-house team of more than 5 watchmakers, technicians, and Polishers and over 30,000 watches bought and sold over the years, authenticity has always been a top priority.
Every watch we have ever sold is delivered with a lifetime promise of authenticity.
The Not So Fine Print
We stand by the quality of all of our pre-owned watches and mechanical objects. If something goes wrong, we’ll always strive to remedy the situation in a timely manner and to the best of our ability. The satisfaction and trust of our clients are of the highest importance to everyone at Greenwich Time.
All of our pre-owned watches undergo, at a minimum, non-invasive mechanical inspections to ensure they are operating correctly and to ensure that they meet our standards of timekeeping and functionality.
Our pre-owned watches, unless otherwise stated, are covered by either a full or limited twelve-month warranty. This excludes any damage or mechanical failure sustained to the watch due to improper use or an incident. Due to their age, some pre-owned watches should not be subjected to the same conditions as when new.
We are passionate about Relationships.
Here at Greenwich Time, we attempt to emulate a boutique experience online. Helping you find the perfect match for your lifestyle, taste, and needs. Building a strong community around our shared passion is the leading principle behind our small but mighty company.
We know a thing or two about watches.
Greenwich Time has sold tens of thousands of watches over the last 4 decades. We are a small team of experienced purveyors who are all part of a large network of buyers and sellers. We have a great reputation for offering only the finest examples of watches.
We live by one cardinal rule: we only source, sell, and buy watches we would own ourselves.
We guarantee everything we sell.
Once you purchase a watch from Greenwich Time, rest assured you are backed by the most comprehensive warranty and Authenticity policy. You will not find a safer place to buy a watch online.
