Decorative screws
They echo one of the most emblematic codes of the Santos watch and create an immediate link between watchmaking and eyewear.
Santos de Cartier: History, Signatures, and Buying Guide
Paris Lunetier opticians present Santos de Cartier, a Cartier Eyewear collection inspired by one of the Maison's most celebrated creations: the Santos-Dumont watch. It translates its exposed screws, architectural lines, and balance between tradition and modernity into the world of eyewear.
Immediate answer: Santos de Cartier is an eyewear collection inspired by the Santos-Dumont watch, created by Louis Cartier for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. The frames feature decorative screws, geometric lines, two-tone finishes, and, depending on the model, PVD treatments.
In one minute
- Collection inspired by the Santos-Dumont watch.
- Decorative screws directly linked to Cartier's watchmaking heritage.
- Geometric lines and structured architecture.
- Refined two-tone treatments.
- PVD finish present on some references.
- Optical and sunglass models depending on the collections.
| Element | Information |
|---|---|
| Inspiration | Santos-Dumont watch |
| Historical creator | Louis Cartier |
| Associated personality | Alberto Santos-Dumont |
| Main signature | Exposed decorative screws |
| Style | Architectural, elegant and timeless |
| Finishes | Two-tone and PVD depending on the model |
What is the history of Santos de Cartier?
Quick answer: Santos de Cartier originated in the early 20th century, when Louis Cartier designed a wristwatch to allow aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont to tell time during his flights.
At a time when pocket watches were still the norm, Alberto Santos-Dumont was looking for a way to read the time without letting go of the controls of his aircraft. Louis Cartier then designed a watch worn on the wrist. This creation would become one of the icons of modern watchmaking.
More than a century later, Cartier Eyewear adopted the main codes of this watch to create an instantly recognizable eyewear collection.
Alberto Santos-Dumont | v Need to tell time in flight | v Louis Cartier creates the Santos watch | v Birth of a watchmaking icon | v Santos de Cartier Eyewear Collection
Good to know: Santos is one of the few luxury eyewear collections directly inspired by a major watchmaking innovation.
Why is Santos de Cartier a unique collection?
The collection is not inspired by a passing trend, but by the aesthetic language of an object already considered an icon. Every detail visible on the frame has a precise origin in the history of the Maison Cartier.
The exposed screws, architectural lines, and sophisticated finishes directly recall the Santos-Dumont watch and the spirit of innovation that presided over its creation.
The signatures of Santos de Cartier
Geometric lines
The balanced proportions and structured shapes recall the architecture of the Santos case.
Two-tone finishes
Metallic contrasts enhance the sophistication of the collection while maintaining discreet elegance.
PVD treatment
Depending on the model, this process allows for a homogeneous, durable, and particularly refined finish.
| Cartier Collection | Inspiration | Emblematic element |
|---|---|---|
| Première | First Eyewear collection of 1983 | Godron and C Signature |
| Panthère | Cartier Jewelry | Sculpted panther head |
| Santos | Santos-Dumont watch | Decorative screws |
| Trinity | Trinity ring | Three intertwined rings |
| Precious | High Jewelry | Solid gold and precious stones |
Our opticians' opinion: Santos appeals to customers looking for a balance between sobriety and personality. The screws catch the eye of connoisseurs, while the geometric lines give the frame a timeless elegance.
How to choose a Santos de Cartier?
Quick answer: Santos de Cartier suits people looking for an elegant, structured frame inspired by a true watchmaking icon.
This collection is particularly suitable for lovers of design, watchmaking, and objects where every detail tells a story.
- You like architectural lines and precise shapes.
- You are looking for a luxurious frame without overly ostentatious decoration.
- You appreciate metallic finishes and two-tone contrasts.
- You want an emblematic collection that can be worn daily.
- You are looking for an optical or sunglass frame that can, depending on the reference, accommodate prescription lenses.
How to recognize a genuine Santos de Cartier?
| Element | What you find on an authentic frame |
|---|---|
| Decorative screws | Precise positioning and impeccable finish |
| Engravings | Clear, regular, and perfectly aligned |
| Two-tone treatment | Homogeneous transitions between finishes |
| Metal parts | Precise adjustments and excellent perceived quality |
| Assembly | Fluid hinges and neat finishes |
Purchasing from an official Cartier Eyewear retailer remains the best guarantee of authenticity and allows you to benefit from the manufacturer's warranty.
Key points to remember
- Santos de Cartier is directly inspired by the Santos-Dumont watch.
- The decorative screws are the historical signature of the collection.
- The frames are distinguished by their geometric lines and two-tone finishes.
- A PVD treatment is used on some references.
- The collection combines watchmaking heritage, timeless design, and eyewear expertise.
- Depending on the model, the frames can accommodate prescription lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Santos de Cartier
Why is the collection called Santos de Cartier?
It pays homage to Alberto Santos-Dumont and the watch created by Louis Cartier to allow him to tell time during his flights.
What do the screws on the frames represent?
They echo one of the most emblematic codes of the Santos watch and recall the collection's watchmaking heritage.
What is PVD treatment?
PVD is a vacuum deposition process that provides a homogeneous and durable finish on certain metal parts.
Can prescription lenses be fitted to a Santos de Cartier?
Yes, depending on the chosen reference, a Santos de Cartier frame can accommodate prescription lenses adapted to your prescription.
What is the difference between Santos and Première de Cartier?
Première pays homage to the first Cartier Eyewear collection from 1983. Santos is directly inspired by the Santos-Dumont watch and its decorative screws.
Discover the Santos de Cartier collection
Paris Lunetier is an official Cartier Eyewear retailer. Discover our selection of Santos de Cartier glasses available for online sale and benefit from the advice of our opticians.
About this page
This page was written by Paris Lunetier opticians to present the Santos de Cartier collection and explain its history, aesthetic signatures, and the criteria for choosing a frame.
Sources: Official Cartier Eyewear documentation, history of the Santos-Dumont watch, and expertise of Paris Lunetier opticians.