A revolutionary piece in the world of horology, the Santos de Cartier watch possesses a rich history dating back to 1904. Its inception was a result of a friendship between two pioneers: Alberto Santos-Dumont, a famed aviator, and Louis Cartier, a visionary jeweler. Santos-Dumont, who found it challenging to check his pocket watch while flying, expressed this concern to Cartier. In response, Cartier designed a solution that marked a significant innovation in watchmaking – the first purpose-built wristwatch, named the Santos de Cartier.

This watch was not just a tool for aviators; it also represented a breakthrough in style. The design was a stark contrast to the pocket watches of the era. It featured a flat case with a distinctive square bezel, legible Roman numerals, and a sapphire cabochon on the crown. The watch's leather strap, a novelty at the time, offered practicality and comfort. It demonstrated a blend of functionality and elegance, rendering it fashionable for men to wear watches on their wrists, a practice that was rare before the Santos.

Over the years, the Santos de Cartier has evolved, incorporating new technologies and designs while maintaining its iconic elements. It has seen variations in size, materials, and movements, but its core aesthetic remains true to the original. The Santos de Cartier is more than just a timepiece; it's a testament to innovation, friendship, and the consistent link between form and function in design. Today, it stands as a landmark of Cartier's legacy in watchmaking and a pioneer in the transition from pocket to wrist watches.