Cartier reimagines the design that inspired the first men’s wristwatch in 1904, opening the movement to full view and mounting a tiny golden airplane on the micro-rotor, a nod to Santos-Dumont’s Demoiselle aircraft. Slim and understated, it is a dress piece for collectors who prize mechanical artistry over noise.

Presents itself in mint condition with little to no signs of wear. Lacquered in deep burgundy, the bridges lend the movement warmth and depth. Carved from 18k rose gold, the case wears the Santos family’s signature exposed screws with a soft, luminous glow. Set across the dial, blued sword-shaped hands catch a flash of deep blue against the pink gold.

Functions include hours and minutes. Time is set with the cabochon crown on the right side of the case: pull it out to move the hands, then push it in to hand-wind the automatic 9629 MC movement, which carries roughly a 44 hour power reserve and stays wound through daily wear. Water resistant to 30 meters, it is made for dry, everyday elegance rather than the pool.

Comes as a complete set, double-boxed with a warranty card, Cartier Care booklet, and a second burgundy alligator strap.

Owning a piece that reinterprets where the modern wristwatch began carries a quiet weight newer icons cannot borrow. Made for the collector who already has the grails and now wants something with wit and soul, it is the kind of watch that quietly disappears from the market.