Cartier Tank vs Santos

The Cartier Tank and Santos are the two great Cartier watches — and the choice between them is one of the most personal decisions in luxury watchmaking. The Santos (1904) is the world's first purpose-built men's wristwatch, designed by Louis Cartier for the Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont. Its square case with eight visible screws on the bezel and integrated steel or two-tone bracelet (with QuickSwitch interchangeable strap system on modern references) gives it a sport-luxury character. The Tank (1917) was inspired by the contour of WWI Renault tanks. Its rectangular case, brancards (the side rails that frame the dial), and Roman numeral chapter ring define formal dress watchmaking. Both have been in continuous production for over a century. The Santos in steel trades $7,000–$9,500; the Santos in two-tone trades $9,500–$13,000; Tank Louis Cartier in 18ct gold on leather trades $10,000–$15,000; Tank Française in steel trades $5,000–$8,000. The Tank is the formal dress watch; the Santos is the sport-luxury everyday option.