I have the large and love it. The watch is quite thin which somehow makes the larger size work, even on a small diameter wrist. I love mine. I also easily polish out the scratches from time to time with a cape cod polishing cloth and the bezel looks good as new and I've used a satin bar on the bracelet to bring it back to new condition. Very easy to do. .
I can confirm that you can buy a new bezel from Cartier. I had once scratched my Cartier Santos badly that I didn’t feel comfortable polishing it. So I requested a bezel replacement and they did. The watch was back to new!
@@wongbryson I only had the bezel replaced, but I would assume that cases are also available as spare parts, as all other watch parts, the reason people go for polishing is because it’s the cheaper option. But me personally I’d rather have a brand new look instead of a polished look.
There is nothing wrong with a scratched watch. I think that watches are made to be worn therefore eventually will scratch and will look alive. Wear your watches, don’t worry and enjoy them fully.
But they could have made the bezel from ceramic or harder stainless. The fact that it easily scratches keeps me from purchasing. My Omega sea master is 15 years old and looks amazing.
@@regulartxdude7813 well, I personally find the ceramic bezels to be too shiny and flashy. If you have a watch that age with time with scratches on the case and the bracelet, I found quite weird to have a bezel that looks so perfect on it. A full ceramic watch that has a brushed aspect, why not?
I have the large Santos. People say to just enjoy the scratches...but I simply take a Cap Cod Polishing Cloth and polish the bezel once each year. Takes about 10 minutes. Purchased in 2019 and in 2024 it looks new.
I could have purchased this watch a little over a year ago at a discount. I sometimes regret passing on it, and this is one of those times. We have the same wrist size, and it looks great on your wrist.
i have been thinking about getting the omega speedy for a few years now, but seeing this santos on the different straps is really making me re-think my purchase. I really like the grey, green, and even the blue options for this watch. They all looked so unique. I love the white dial and slim case. Thanks for the video! Really enjoyed it.
I just ordered the Santos medium with the subtle green dial, I think it is timeless in design but also a bit different with the green dial and strap. Thank you for your reviews and update.
What a great idea to make a 1 year review. I saw your first review and decided to get the medium santos. I had the santos 100 years ago and it was so large and bulky on my 7.25 inch wrist that I traded it in for a Rolex . Cartier makes such Classic watches the large thick case Didn’t look like something cartier would design . The medium feels a little small but it’s so classic and looks more like the original 1904 santos. When you have small scratches all over the bezel as you now have, the patina looks amazing and adds so much more charm to the watch. Keep up the great videos.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I have nothing to hide with my bezel scratches and like you said, it makes the Watch more beautiful. Hope more people can enjoy their watches and not worry about the scratches along the way
I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the AMZWATCH's watches are the most intriguing.
I have a medium as well, and my wrist is 7.25 inches. The large dial is less clean with the date, it feels like an imperfection, doesn’t feel as symmetrical as the medium. Another thing that is absolutely gorgeous is the white they use : it’s not 100% white, it’s silver white. And depending on how the sun hits the dial, you get 100 different shades of white. Also, this is the most iconic and comfortable integrated stainless steel bracelet. A true homage to the aviation industry, feels like wearing a fuselage.
A few thoughts from my end: I have the medium as well, and it's a fantastic watch. The bezel can be easily polished without removing major amounts of metal for the hairlines using a Cape Cod cloth, and 100% agree a micro adjustment in the bracelet would have been MUCH APPRECIATED. I noticed you dried your watch with a paper towel. Those paper fibers will scratch that bezel quite easily. Your best bet is to use a microfiber with high fiber count (> 400). Also, a camera lens blower works well to remove excess water in the bracelet. Thanks for the great video!
@@MinuteMon Cape cod cloth is the last thing to use on a watch. They take off lots of metal, I mean A LOT, and leaves a roundish uneven appearance. No watchmaker uses this. Its total crap. Use only if you want to ruin your watch.
I just bought a Cartier Santos Medium in July 2024, thank you for your video, that get me more confidom to buy it, classic, good watch, love it so much.
Just for the record, the watch actually has VERY strong anti-magnetic features. Far MORE than most, to include Rolex and other high end watches in this relative price point. Great review
@@coreygolphenee9633 Actually the Milgauss stats account for fields up to 1000 whereas the Cartie Santos is 1200 (BOTH can do MORE based on independent studies) BUTTTT the technical specs on antimagnetism for the Carier is BETTER.
The white dial is a sure choice. But I have absolutely no legbility problem with the blue one whatever the light conditions are. I even find it very convenient for my life style : yesterday i was driving in a tunnel and I checked the time. The lume gave it to me right away. What depends on the light conditions is the color blue. Most of the time the dial seems black, then the blue reveals itself sometimes. Magic!
Idk you played killer instinct as a kid but that “ccccccc-combo breaker” hit for me. Anyways, great video. Thinking of adding this to the collection with additional strap options.
Man, this watch has grown on me since seeing it in person, I may have to get one. My wife was happy about that too as she walked out with a bracelet when my intentions were only to see the Santos lol
I really like the design of the Santos that I ended up getting both a Santos Dumont Large and a Santos de Cartier in medium. I do find myself babying the medium steel Santos more due to how it scratches so easily in all its components. I still love them both though that now I’m tempted to get the new large blue bezel and blue dial Santos so I have a more sportier/ sort of rugged Santos.
For the price Cartier should consider adding a protective coating to the steel. Zelos, Traska and even Citizen have it on some of their watches and helps a lot with the scratches. With that it really elevates it more to the sporty watch it wants to be.
@@coreygolphenee9633 correct: supple steel snake feel all the way. Vacheron does the same thing: solid steel bracelets that feel & hang like fkn silk, somehow
I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the MAMACOO's watches are the most intriguing.
A friend of mine has an old Santos Galbée that is scratched up and beat up, yet oozes character. If later in life my medium Santos looks like half of said watch I'll be over the moon!
I believe a replacement bezel is ~$250 with Cartier while getting the watch serviced. One solution would be to remove the bezel and have it professionally brushed. Obviously, that would alter the bling factor of the watch, but you wouldn't have to worry about light scratches so much.
I have a 7 inch wrist and feel like the medium is still too big because of the square. I’m going to try a small Dumont this weekend and compare them b2b. Wish they would just make an automatic in small as well, at least in the Santos.
Looking for one of these in a medium for my 18th. Would be upgrading from my tag heur aqua racer to something more elegant. Everyday I fall more in love with the santos
What a great review.! I love Santos. The watch looks great in your wrist. I’m not a fan of having the date or diamonds around my watch. Though the Cartier diamonds are beautiful I prefer just a clean face. I am debating between the Panthère and a Louis Tank. I just love the Panthère Bracelet. The Louis Tank is timeless. I want to be able to wear my watch everyday - without worry- like you. I’m going to Cartier tomorrow and will decide when get there! Thank you for your video.. ( I jumped when you dropped the face into the small bowl of soapy water !!)
Great video. even if you have the SS bezel, minor scratches are just wear marks. I had a vintage two tone speedmaster polished and don’t regret it even though some dings weren’t not completely removed I now also own a 18k Santos Dumont, the bezel has multiple hairline scratches all over it and I rarely wear it and baby it… I also have a Santos with the 2021 gray/black dial and bezel, that bezel will never scratch 😊….. this model is my favorite in my collection.
Having a watch collection is hugely important (in my opinion)... I wear my £80 G-Shock if I'm scratching about... or my G-Shock Mudmaster if gardening, DIY, Camping... or G-Shock MRG for indoors banging about. But for evenings I'll be wearing Rolex, Omega, Grand Seiko, Cartier as the environment risk changes. Then haute horology for flexing if required 😂
The leather strap gives the watch a completely different look, like getting two watches in one. If bored with the look, just change the strap for a while.
Awesome review I love the Santos Medium and it’s high on my list. I was debating between the Santos and the Chopard Alpine Eagle. For the price/value, I think the Santos is a clear bargain/winner. Love to hear your thoughts. Thanks
Chopard Alpine Eagle is awesome as well, I considered having both in the collection at the same time because to me they will wear differently. Plus the dials are completely different
Great review! Love the content. I had the same thing think the large was also to big for me and the medium was perfect. In the end I only had the money to buy one watch and I have bought the grand Seiko SLGA007 lake suwa. I know the price is a bit more up but when I had them side to side there was no question for me anymore. In the end love the Santos and would like to own one some time. Keep up the great videos
@@MinuteMon yea I was searching for it in Europe where I live but everywhere it was sold out. I was two weeks back on a holiday in the U.K. and to my surprise I saw it in a shop on York! Took some time to think it out since it was my first expensive watch bit I am very happy with it! Love the channel, would like to see more reviews. Best regards Guus
I have the large model with the blue dial and use cape cod polishing cloths. It looks like new. Any small scratches just polish out. If you ding it really badly and take out a chunk that a polishing cloth can’t remove, Cartier will just replace the bezel every service anyway. Enjoy the watch.
Nice Santos. The one GADA watch that comes to mind is a Nomos Ahoi Neomatik in 36mm and signal white with the metal sports bracelet. 200m WR, will work fine on leather, looks dressy enough to not have to swap it.
I have the ROUND version of the Santos: The 1990s Cartier Santos Ronde 33mm Automatic 1920-1. I do not have the original papers, but something better than that. I have the total provenance of owners from 1996 onwards - the previous 5 owners have handed down their names and addresses as well as their receips from repairs/servicing to the next owner. Being owner number 6 of this Cartier Santos Ronde I am surprised that the bezel is in such a good condition - a bit scratched, but it is all part of its history. Long live the Santos!
An alternative is the Santos Dumont with its sloped bezel. Very elegant but not everyday. As an everyday watch I prefer my Pasha C. Waterproof up to 100 meters and less prone to scratches.
I was really set on getting the pvd blue... but man seeing how well the santos looks on a strap... i just don't think grey would work on the blue bezel.
Your bezel can be polished starting with a 3 micron diamond paste. So the amount of metal you will take away would allow many, many polishes before you will notice anything. Then.. it's just a bezel you can replace.
Great review, very very helpful! I am trying to decide between Santos Medium two-tone, Rolex Yacht Master rhodium dial and an Explorer I two-tone. Decisions, decisions!
I have the medium too, but no scratches because I'm super-careful and it's rotated with other watches. I'd like a larger size, but I wish they did the large one without the date complication, which I think spoils the dial.
Loveed your video, have a doubt, ? as a first luxury watch do you recommend me a tank must large, or otherwise a Santos large on calf strap. Also a Tudor pelagos 42 it's on my mind, what I should do?
I agree! Hence why I don’t mind the scratches. I’ll only request a light refinishing when it’s time to get a service otherwise I’ll just keep wearing and enjoying business as usual 😎
What are you thoughts on the synthetic sapphire spinel? I have the two tone and it's the only thing that keeps the watch from being perfect imo. I would prefer a steel crown instead of having a synthetic spinel.
I want the medium too, but still can’t decide between the all steel and the two tone. Is there a reason to go with one over the other aside from price? The two tone is really subtle too, the gold isnt all that yellow and IMO the design really lends itself to two tone. All steel might be more versatile, but I already have a few watches, hence wanting a square one too, so I don’t need a one watch solution from shorts and sneakers to tux.
I never viewed their polished bezel as a design flaw since this is based off how Cartier created their first pilot’s watch for Alberto Santos-Dumont and I don’t believe their intended audience for this design would be constantly worrying about scratching their bezel. But Cartier has created brushed PVD bezels on their new models to meet these concerns while still keeping the classic Cartier Santos with a polished bezel
Happen to come across this video of yours in my feed. I really like the design of Santos and would like to get it at some point in my life (preferably while I'm still young enough), and I would opt for the medium because it's the elegant size to an elegant watch (my small wrist also plays a part). Interestingly, I'm also considering a used Aqua Terra as my next watch for 2 reasons : I need a bracelet summer watch (which Santos also fits), and Omega AT is a watch I can resell at comparable price to what I buy it used for. From that, we share quite a lot of similarities. I will most likely buy the AT first, after the economy is done kicking my ass.....
I have buy this Santos medium 3 week ago and absolutely love it . Super confortable and accuracy top. One week ago also arrived this Cartier lotion and it looks like a good product🫡
Not gonna lie, that the bezel is THAT a scratch magnet could be a deal breaker for me. It’s a godly watch and I love it, but the price is also high. So, I would want a watch is more scratch resistant I think.
@@boykaunlimitted4514 it actually comes from the factory with a thin plastic case that covers the bezel, crystal, and lugs. A few of those, but a slightly thinner version, would be great.
I agree with the micro adjustment! I have a 6.5” wrist and this is such a big problem for me that I’ll likely end up selling it. It is either way too tight or way too loose for me. So disappointing…
You mention the omega AT was anti-magnetic. Well, I read up on the santos movement on the Cartier site and it’s also anti-magnetic. I am not sure why no review ever mentions this nice aspect of the santos!
Great question & comment! Yes the Santos can have anti-magnetic properties to the movement, but without a doubt the Omega Master Chronometer movement is truly anti-magnetic to the force of an MRI machine. So - I don’t really mention Cartier Santos anti-magnetic since it is usually a low tolerance for magnetism - If you stick the Santos on top to a speaker, strong magnet, phone etc it will still eventually get magnetized - but not Omega’s.
@@MinuteMon the Cartier website says that the 1847MC escape mechanism is made with non-magnetic components. Admittedly I’m not an expert on movements though (I’m more into design, etc). And kudos to omega, I like them as well.
@@MinuteMon A Santos is anti magnetic up to 1,200 gauss, which is more anti-magnetic than a Rolex Milgauss rated at 1,000 gauss. It certainly will not get magnetised by items such as a speaker, phone or an office use magnet. It is not as anti-magnetic as a Omega 8800 which is rated to 15,000 gauss. But 1,200 gauss resistance is not at all "low tolerance for magnetism", it's anti-magnetic to almost 99% of scenarios except for some extreme conditioins, such as a MRI.
Here’s My MOST Worn Dive Watch - Tudor Black Bay 58 Silver 925 1 Year Review
ruclips.net/video/kry97L_MjTE/видео.html
I have the large and love it. The watch is quite thin which somehow makes the larger size work, even on a small diameter wrist. I love mine. I also easily polish out the scratches from time to time with a cape cod polishing cloth and the bezel looks good as new and I've used a satin bar on the bracelet to bring it back to new condition. Very easy to do. .
I can confirm that you can buy a new bezel from Cartier. I had once scratched my Cartier Santos badly that I didn’t feel comfortable polishing it. So I requested a bezel replacement and they did. The watch was back to new!
How much did they charge you? Thanks for your comment
@@atl3630 In USD it was around $345
Thanks for sharing! I’ll pin this for those interested in this topic.
If the case is badly scratched, can we buy a replacement case too?
@@wongbryson I only had the bezel replaced, but I would assume that cases are also available as spare parts, as all other watch parts, the reason people go for polishing is because it’s the cheaper option. But me personally I’d rather have a brand new look instead of a polished look.
There is nothing wrong with a scratched watch. I think that watches are made to be worn therefore eventually will scratch and will look alive. Wear your watches, don’t worry and enjoy them fully.
Nicely done video.
If this price correction does anything, let’s hope it gets us back to people buying watches to wear.
Scratches and all.
100%, scratching & denting make the watch unique, make it yours, and shows you're NOT "flaunting it" lol
@@LIONTAMER3D exactly. There is nothing more annoying that the guy who keeps freaking out every time he sees a new scratch on his watch.
But they could have made the bezel from ceramic or harder stainless. The fact that it easily scratches keeps me from purchasing. My Omega sea master is 15 years old and looks amazing.
@@regulartxdude7813 well, I personally find the ceramic bezels to be too shiny and flashy. If you have a watch that age with time with scratches on the case and the bracelet, I found quite weird to have a bezel that looks so perfect on it. A full ceramic watch that has a brushed aspect, why not?
I bought my santos after your review one year ago and I must say I feel exactly the same as you do now. It’s the perfect everyday watch.
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 perfect everyday watch!
I have the large Santos. People say to just enjoy the scratches...but I simply take a Cap Cod Polishing Cloth and polish the bezel once each year. Takes about 10 minutes. Purchased in 2019 and in 2024 it looks new.
This is such a knockout watch review. Smooth, well thought out, and great camera work.
Thank you so much!
I could have purchased this watch a little over a year ago at a discount. I sometimes regret passing on it, and this is one of those times. We have the same wrist size, and it looks great on your wrist.
I have one for sale for 4800 plus shipping if you are still looking
@@kingjames5946 where are you selling it?
i have been thinking about getting the omega speedy for a few years now, but seeing this santos on the different straps is really making me re-think my purchase. I really like the grey, green, and even the blue options for this watch. They all looked so unique. I love the white dial and slim case. Thanks for the video! Really enjoyed it.
Both are so iconic....you definitely should buy them both 😊
I switched from brown strap to blue and it really makes it pop! I love it.
Just got mine last week! My ultimate watch! Mine is also medium with leather strap and rose gold bezel!
Congrats! Great choice
One of if not my favorite watch,it’s just so clean and nice.
I just ordered the Santos medium with the subtle green dial, I think it is timeless in design but also a bit different with the green dial and strap. Thank you for your reviews and update.
What a great idea to make a 1 year review. I saw your first review and decided to get the medium santos. I had the santos 100 years ago and it was so large and bulky on my 7.25 inch wrist that I traded it in for a Rolex . Cartier makes such Classic watches the large thick case Didn’t look like something cartier would design . The medium feels a little small but it’s so classic and looks more like the original 1904 santos. When you have small scratches all over the bezel as you now have, the patina looks amazing and adds so much more charm to the watch. Keep up the great videos.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I have nothing to hide with my bezel scratches and like you said, it makes the Watch more beautiful. Hope more people can enjoy their watches and not worry about the scratches along the way
It looks great after one year, I love a lot of scratches showing that the watch has a life.
I am on the fence of buying one but yours looks so good ❤
I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the AMZWATCH's watches are the most intriguing.
I have a medium as well, and my wrist is 7.25 inches. The large dial is less clean with the date, it feels like an imperfection, doesn’t feel as symmetrical as the medium.
Another thing that is absolutely gorgeous is the white they use : it’s not 100% white, it’s silver white. And depending on how the sun hits the dial, you get 100 different shades of white.
Also, this is the most iconic and comfortable integrated stainless steel bracelet. A true homage to the aviation industry, feels like wearing a fuselage.
The Santos is number one on my wish list! Thanks for the review! It looks pretty good on all those other straps too!
Thank you! I believe it works as a great One Watch Collection for many instances
A few thoughts from my end: I have the medium as well, and it's a fantastic watch. The bezel can be easily polished without removing major amounts of metal for the hairlines using a Cape Cod cloth, and 100% agree a micro adjustment in the bracelet would have been MUCH APPRECIATED.
I noticed you dried your watch with a paper towel. Those paper fibers will scratch that bezel quite easily. Your best bet is to use a microfiber with high fiber count (> 400). Also, a camera lens blower works well to remove excess water in the bracelet. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks for the tips! Will check out the microfiber cloth as well
@@MinuteMon Cape cod cloth is the last thing to use on a watch. They take off lots of metal, I mean A LOT, and leaves a roundish uneven appearance. No watchmaker uses this. Its total crap. Use only if you want to ruin your watch.
I just bought a Cartier Santos Medium in July 2024, thank you for your video, that get me more confidom to buy it, classic, good watch, love it so much.
Just for the record, the watch actually has VERY strong anti-magnetic features. Far MORE than most, to include Rolex and other high end watches in this relative price point. Great review
Well except the Milgauss when it comes to Rolex
@@coreygolphenee9633 Actually the Milgauss stats account for fields up to 1000 whereas the Cartie Santos is 1200 (BOTH can do MORE based on independent studies) BUTTTT the technical specs on antimagnetism for the Carier is BETTER.
@@dannyfierro1597 is it better than Omega's?
@@1ce2berg In general, YES. That said, the Omega Railmaster is 15,000 gauss
@@1ce2berg And my FAVORITE watch brand is Omega
My heart is set on the Santos medium as well even if the bezel scratches do make me crazy.
The white dial is a sure choice. But I have absolutely no legbility problem with the blue one whatever the light conditions are. I even find it very convenient for my life style : yesterday i was driving in a tunnel and I checked the time. The lume gave it to me right away.
What depends on the light conditions is the color blue. Most of the time the dial seems black, then the blue reveals itself sometimes. Magic!
Love this video, especially since you’re honest about the bezel, and you have a similar sized wrist at me…looking forward to more content!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
in love with this watch i rather have this than a rolex to wear personally definitely a goal for my first watch
Man Idk if it’s the lighting or what but the aqua terra looks amazing on your wrist
Idk you played killer instinct as a kid but that “ccccccc-combo breaker” hit for me. Anyways, great video. Thinking of adding this to the collection with additional strap options.
Man, this watch has grown on me since seeing it in person, I may have to get one. My wife was happy about that too as she walked out with a bracelet when my intentions were only to see the Santos lol
I really like the design of the Santos that I ended up getting both a Santos Dumont Large and a Santos de Cartier in medium. I do find myself babying the medium steel Santos more due to how it scratches so easily in all its components.
I still love them both though that now I’m tempted to get the new large blue bezel and blue dial Santos so I have a more sportier/ sort of rugged Santos.
I would love to see a 2 year update ❤
I love long term reviews. Sweet ass watch and great vid!
Thanks Brandon! 🙌🏼 that’s like your Tudor BB58 2 year review, loved it!
For the price Cartier should consider adding a protective coating to the steel. Zelos, Traska and even Citizen have it on some of their watches and helps a lot with the scratches. With that it really elevates it more to the sporty watch it wants to be.
I think it would affect the finish of the watch which is kinda to point with Cartier, that bracelet is the best on anything less than 30
@@coreygolphenee9633 correct: supple steel snake feel all the way. Vacheron does the same thing: solid steel bracelets that feel & hang like fkn silk, somehow
I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the MAMACOO's watches are the most intriguing.
MAMACOO！Every time you exhibit one of these watches I become super tempted to get one.
I love the simplicity of Cartier. I have the Roadster GMT and a Pasha. You can stare at the dial for hours.
A friend of mine has an old Santos Galbée that is scratched up and beat up, yet oozes character. If later in life my medium Santos looks like half of said watch I'll be over the moon!
I love that!
I believe a replacement bezel is ~$250 with Cartier while getting the watch serviced. One solution would be to remove the bezel and have it professionally brushed. Obviously, that would alter the bling factor of the watch, but you wouldn't have to worry about light scratches so much.
I have a 7 inch wrist and feel like the medium is still too big because of the square. I’m going to try a small Dumont this weekend and compare them b2b. Wish they would just make an automatic in small as well, at least in the Santos.
honestly, I think a thoroughly scratched santos bezel is quite nice. The transitions between there and unscratched is a tough period I'm sure though
It really is tough. The first scratches hurt everytime I looked at the watch they were glaring. After a few more you get used to it.
Really nice, comprehensive review. Parlicularly liked the 'cleaning' segment, and just how much you're enjoying your Cartier. It looks great!
Great video Derek! I was planning to do a one year review video on my Santos too! September will be my one year anniversary of owning mine!
Can’t wait to hear your one year!
Looking for one of these in a medium for my 18th. Would be upgrading from my tag heur aqua racer to something more elegant. Everyday I fall more in love with the santos
I am selling mine for 4800 plus shipping if you are still looking
The Medium Size is absolute perfect for your wirst. We have the Same wrist size. I also want to buy this Watch
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Great video Derek. I’m loving my Santos medium that I just bought from your store! Perfect everyday watch.
So perfect! Glad you enjoy it
This is my number 1 dream watch. Thanks for sharing!
Delugs doesn’t sell the Santos strap anymore. Do you recommend another company?
What a great review.!
I love Santos. The watch looks great in your wrist.
I’m not a fan of having the date or diamonds around my watch. Though the Cartier diamonds are beautiful I prefer just a clean face.
I am debating between the Panthère and a Louis Tank.
I just love the Panthère Bracelet.
The Louis Tank is timeless.
I want to be able to wear my watch everyday - without worry- like you.
I’m going to Cartier tomorrow and will decide when get there!
Thank you for your video..
( I jumped when you dropped the face into the small bowl of soapy water !!)
I love that you did this follow up video!
Love that you enjoyed it!
Great video. even if you have the SS bezel, minor scratches are just wear marks. I had a vintage two tone speedmaster polished and don’t regret it even though some dings weren’t not completely removed
I now also own a 18k Santos Dumont, the bezel has multiple hairline scratches all over it and I rarely wear it and baby it… I also have a Santos with the 2021 gray/black dial and bezel, that bezel will never scratch 😊….. this model is my favorite in my collection.
I don’t mind scratches but I hate “breaking in” a watch so I think I’m gonna look at pre-owned. Thanks for the review
I am selling mine for 4800 plus shipping if you are still looking
Having a watch collection is hugely important (in my opinion)... I wear my £80 G-Shock if I'm scratching about... or my G-Shock Mudmaster if gardening, DIY, Camping... or G-Shock MRG for indoors banging about.
But for evenings I'll be wearing Rolex, Omega, Grand Seiko, Cartier as the environment risk changes.
Then haute horology for flexing if required 😂
Derek = Santos Medium. Tool-less bracelet adjustment / removal is massively underappreciated
Haha guilty.. I just love the watch so much. That’s like how I think of you = AP 15450.
The leather strap gives the watch a completely different look, like getting two watches in one. If bored with the look, just change the strap for a while.
Awesome review I love the Santos Medium and it’s high on my list. I was debating between the Santos and the Chopard Alpine Eagle. For the price/value, I think the Santos is a clear bargain/winner. Love to hear your thoughts. Thanks
Chopard Alpine Eagle is awesome as well, I considered having both in the collection at the same time because to me they will wear differently. Plus the dials are completely different
I would add that you can buff out most of the scratches, carefully of course, if the bezel scratches are not too severe.
My 2021 gray black dial santos is my favourite watch in my extensive collection. It's universal and pure class
You can get the grey non scratch bezel. I agree on the micro adjustments
Thank you. I was going for the large, but now def going for the medium
You've taught to me appreciate Cartier more and more!
Great review! Love the content. I had the same thing think the large was also to big for me and the medium was perfect. In the end I only had the money to buy one watch and I have bought the grand Seiko SLGA007 lake suwa. I know the price is a bit more up but when I had them side to side there was no question for me anymore. In the end love the Santos and would like to own one some time. Keep up the great videos
SLGA007 is awesome!! No wrong choices here
@@MinuteMon yea I was searching for it in Europe where I live but everywhere it was sold out. I was two weeks back on a holiday in the U.K. and to my surprise I saw it in a shop on York! Took some time to think it out since it was my first expensive watch bit I am very happy with it! Love the channel, would like to see more reviews. Best regards Guus
I have the large model with the blue dial and use cape cod polishing cloths. It looks like new. Any small scratches just polish out.
If you ding it really badly and take out a chunk that a polishing cloth can’t remove, Cartier will just replace the bezel every service anyway.
Enjoy the watch.
Nice Santos. The one GADA watch that comes to mind is a Nomos Ahoi Neomatik in 36mm and signal white with the metal sports bracelet.
200m WR, will work fine on leather, looks dressy enough to not have to swap it.
Excellent review!! 10 of 10!!! Thank you!
I have the Santos with Gold screws and gold roman numerals . I just had serviced at Cartier . it looks like brand new
Agree with everything you said. It's a perfect watch. Hopefully I'll own one one day
I have the ROUND version of the Santos: The 1990s Cartier Santos Ronde 33mm Automatic 1920-1. I do not have the original papers, but something better than that. I have the total provenance of owners from 1996 onwards - the previous 5 owners have handed down their names and addresses as well as their receips from repairs/servicing to the next owner. Being owner number 6 of this Cartier Santos Ronde I am surprised that the bezel is in such a good condition - a bit scratched, but it is all part of its history. Long live the Santos!
I’ve owned this watch since July 2021. I have MAYBE one faint scratch. Idk what y’all are doing. Clothing doesn’t scratch it.
An alternative is the Santos Dumont with its sloped bezel. Very elegant but not everyday. As an everyday watch I prefer my Pasha C. Waterproof up to 100 meters and less prone to scratches.
Nice ! Did you ever have issues with the bracelet pitching hairs on your wrist or pinching your skin ?
I never had issues with the bracelet pinching hairs or my skin, but then again due to genetics I don't got much arm hair lol
I was really set on getting the pvd blue... but man seeing how well the santos looks on a strap... i just don't think grey would work on the blue bezel.
I love the classic white dial, that’s always my first choice 😁
What is the name of the strap @8:04? It’s Gorgeous
Your bezel can be polished starting with a 3 micron diamond paste. So the amount of metal you will take away would allow many, many polishes before you will notice anything. Then.. it's just a bezel you can replace.
Great video. I just bought a large. Where did you get the Cartier soft box at around 9:45 in the video?
Great review, very very helpful! I am trying to decide between Santos Medium two-tone, Rolex Yacht Master rhodium dial and an Explorer I two-tone. Decisions, decisions!
I have the medium too, but no scratches because I'm super-careful and it's rotated with other watches. I'd like a larger size, but I wish they did the large one without the date complication, which I think spoils the dial.
Yeah I love no date on the Cartier Santos - feels well balanced
Delugs no longer selling. Any other options?
Hello ! Just a simple question ..... as aftermarket will be possible to buy (and mount ) the gold bazel ? Without buy the bracelet, I mean .....
going to buy this watch for my graduation!
Love the tip about keeping the 6 o'clock side a little shorter than the 12.
Hello, did I get it right that there is a difference between the medium and large regarding bezel scratches? Thanks, great video
Almost time to do a 2-Year update!!!
I like that blue strap at the end the best
Loveed your video, have a doubt, ? as a first luxury watch do you recommend me a tank must large, or otherwise a Santos large on calf strap. Also a Tudor pelagos 42 it's on my mind, what I should do?
I think it looks cool and well loved with the hairline scratches. Would be a shame to polish them out. It's a great watch that's for sure!
I agree! Hence why I don’t mind the scratches. I’ll only request a light refinishing when it’s time to get a service otherwise I’ll just keep wearing and enjoying business as usual 😎
What are you thoughts on the synthetic sapphire spinel? I have the two tone and it's the only thing that keeps the watch from being perfect imo. I would prefer a steel crown instead of having a synthetic spinel.
I want the medium too, but still can’t decide between the all steel and the two tone. Is there a reason to go with one over the other aside from price?
The two tone is really subtle too, the gold isnt all that yellow and IMO the design really lends itself to two tone. All steel might be more versatile, but I already have a few watches, hence wanting a square one too, so I don’t need a one watch solution from shorts and sneakers to tux.
I get serviced every 2 years and they do a little bit of polishing I think because it looks a little shiny when I get it back
This watch looks awesome on you. Great Choice.
I have a 7” wrist and went with the medium too. The large fit fine but it didn’t seem as Cartier.
Agreed!
Large gives a more versatile and sporty feel imo
Great video and nice feedback after a long time owning. Thanks !
Just wanna say that the scratches show up more under fluorescent white lights, in daylight it is barely noticeable and I have the two tone.
That’s true! Barely noticeable in dim lighting 😉
Hope it comes out in a brushed silver bezel version. I love the watch but if your harsh the bezel is a design flaw for a design house such as Cartier
I never viewed their polished bezel as a design flaw since this is based off how Cartier created their first pilot’s watch for Alberto Santos-Dumont and I don’t believe their intended audience for this design would be constantly worrying about scratching their bezel. But Cartier has created brushed PVD bezels on their new models to meet these concerns while still keeping the classic Cartier Santos with a polished bezel
Happen to come across this video of yours in my feed. I really like the design of Santos and would like to get it at some point in my life (preferably while I'm still young enough), and I would opt for the medium because it's the elegant size to an elegant watch (my small wrist also plays a part). Interestingly, I'm also considering a used Aqua Terra as my next watch for 2 reasons : I need a bracelet summer watch (which Santos also fits), and Omega AT is a watch I can resell at comparable price to what I buy it used for. From that, we share quite a lot of similarities. I will most likely buy the AT first, after the economy is done kicking my ass.....
Both great pieces 👍🏼
I have buy this Santos medium 3 week ago and absolutely love it . Super confortable and accuracy top. One week ago also arrived this Cartier lotion and it looks like a good product🫡
Please may i know if the dial made of Sapphire crystal ? Thank you in advance for your reply
Does the black DLC scratch? The scratches will drive my crazy
I’m going to own a Santos, can i go serenely Under the water? Thanks for asnwers
Anyway, i appreciated it so much!!
Not gonna lie, that the bezel is THAT a scratch magnet could be a deal breaker for me. It’s a godly watch and I love it, but the price is also high. So, I would want a watch is more scratch resistant I think.
They need to update it with a ceramic bezel. Then would definitely buy.
I always thought a ceramic bezel would feel un-Cartier but hey I may be wrong if they execute it extremely well
@@MinuteMon yh that's true. Don't get me wrong, absolutely love this piece. This and the SBGJ249 are my two dream watches.
@@MinuteMon maybe put a plastic cover over it like you do with your phone😂
@@boykaunlimitted4514 it actually comes from the factory with a thin plastic case that covers the bezel, crystal, and lugs. A few of those, but a slightly thinner version, would be great.
I agree with the micro adjustment! I have a 6.5” wrist and this is such a big problem for me that I’ll likely end up selling it. It is either way too tight or way too loose for me. So disappointing…
Rock the leather band and do wrist excercises to bulk your wrists up to fit😂
Steel Cartier bracelets have on the clasp an adjustment possibility providing an extra pin hole. I have never had any issues fitting the watch.
@ I don’t know what Cartier you’re looking at but my Santos medium does not have any sort of adjustment.
@@SonikDethmonkey Maybe it used to be like that. Older Santos and Tank did have it.
You mention the omega AT was anti-magnetic. Well, I read up on the santos movement on the Cartier site and it’s also anti-magnetic. I am not sure why no review ever mentions this nice aspect of the santos!
Great question & comment! Yes the Santos can have anti-magnetic properties to the movement, but without a doubt the Omega Master Chronometer movement is truly anti-magnetic to the force of an MRI machine. So - I don’t really mention Cartier Santos anti-magnetic since it is usually a low tolerance for magnetism - If you stick the Santos on top to a speaker, strong magnet, phone etc it will still eventually get magnetized - but not Omega’s.
@@MinuteMon the Cartier website says that the 1847MC escape mechanism is made with non-magnetic components. Admittedly I’m not an expert on movements though (I’m more into design, etc). And kudos to omega, I like them as well.
@@MinuteMon A Santos is anti magnetic up to 1,200 gauss, which is more anti-magnetic than a Rolex Milgauss rated at 1,000 gauss. It certainly will not get magnetised by items such as a speaker, phone or an office use magnet. It is not as anti-magnetic as a Omega 8800 which is rated to 15,000 gauss. But 1,200 gauss resistance is not at all "low tolerance for magnetism", it's anti-magnetic to almost 99% of scenarios except for some extreme conditioins, such as a MRI.
How's it compare to galbbe xl?
Derek, thanks for the watch review but I really like your shirt with stripes and can’t hep but ask what brand it is and where can I get one?
Thanks for checking the video out, shirt from Zara!