About Cartier Santos Gold and Steel Watches
The Santos was born from a commission by Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, and the two-tone yellow gold and steel execution became one of the most enduring expressions of the line, blending precious metal warmth with everyday wearability. Across its generations the collection has evolved from the slimmer Galbée profile to the more substantial Santos 100 case, with both sizes sharing the hallmark square case, rounded corners, and prominent screwed bezel that distinguish a Santos from every other luxury sport watch on the market. Silver opaline dials with Roman numerals anchor the collection aesthetically, offering a legible, classical face that balances the contemporary case architecture. Whether on an integrated yellow-gold-and-steel bracelet or a leather strap, these references represent Cartier's mastery of combining fine jewelry craft with practical timekeeping.
What to Look For
Buyers should consider case size and bracelet choice first: the Santos 100 references such as W20072X7 are offered on leather straps and are slightly larger and more assertive than the earlier Galbée, while large bracelet models like the W2SA0006 deliver a seamless integrated look on the wrist. Condition grading and dial originality are the primary value drivers in the pre-owned market, with unpolished cases, intact Roman numerals, and matching serial ranges commanding meaningful premiums over worn or refinished examples.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Cartier Santos Galbée and the Santos 100 in gold and steel?
The Santos Galbée is a slimmer, more vintage-inspired profile that was produced primarily through the 1980s and 1990s, while the Santos 100 introduced a larger, thicker case designed for a more contemporary sport-watch presence. Both share the square case and screwed-bezel DNA of the Santos family but differ noticeably in size, lug design, and overall wrist presence.
Are the gold and steel Cartier Santos watches available both pre-owned and brand new at Bizak and Co.?
Yes, this collection includes both pre-owned examples such as vintage Galbée pieces and pre-owned W20072X7 references, as well as brand-new examples including the W2SA0006 and new-old-stock W20072X7 models. Each watch is authenticated before listing and is ready to ship from Bizak and Co.
Does the yellow gold and steel Santos come on a bracelet or a leather strap?
Both configurations are represented in this collection: the W2SA0006 large model is offered on an integrated yellow-gold-and-steel bracelet, while the Santos 100 W20072X7 references come on a leather strap. Some pre-owned Galbée pieces may also be found on the original two-tone bracelet depending on the individual listing.
Browse also: Cartier collection · stainless steel watches.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
