Santos Evolves Again: The New Santos de Cartier Chronograph
- coolwatchgo1
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
At Watches & Wonders 2026, Cartier introduced three new Santos de Cartier Chronograph models, available in stainless steel, yellow gold and steel two-tone and full yellow gold. The new watches retain the signature Santos design while focusing on refinements to the case proportions and chronograph pushers.
In fact, chronograph versions have always been relatively rare within the Santos collection. Compared to the regular time-only, date and Skeleton models, the Chronograph has remained one of the less common series. The 2020 Santos Chronograph introduced an unusual design by integrating the chronograph pushers into the left side of the case, offering a different operating experience from traditional chronographs. For 2026, Cartier has returned to a more conventional layout, moving the pushers back to the upper and lower positions around the crown on the right side of the case, making the watch more intuitive for everyday use.
A Classic Design With Chronograph Functionality
The new Santos Chronograph features a large case measuring 47mm lug-to-lug, 39.8mm wide and 11.6mm thick. Despite the addition of the chronograph function, the watch retains the Santos collection’s signature square case and flowing lines.
The dial features a classic tri-compax layout with a running seconds display, a 30-minute counter and a 12-hour counter positioned at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock respectively. Cartier uses a combination of sunburst and satin-brushed finishes to create visual depth across both the main dial and subdials. The iconic Roman numeral hour markers and sword-shaped hands remain key elements of the design.
Chronograph Pushers Return To The Traditional Layout
One of the most noticeable changes on the 2026 Santos Chronograph is the pushers. While the 2020 version integrated the chronograph controls into the left side of the case, the new model returns to the traditional arrangement with pushers positioned above and below the crown on the right side.Although the new layout loses some of the unconventional character of its predecessor, it offers a more familiar user experience and creates a cleaner, more balanced appearance.
The signature Santos design elements remain intact, including the eight exposed screws on the bezel, which pay tribute to aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, as well as the blue sapphire-set crown, a long-standing Cartier design signature rooted in the brand's jewellery watchmaking heritage.
Improved Versatility For Everyday Wear
The new models continue to feature Cartier’s QuickSwitch system, allowing owners to change between the metal bracelet, alligator strap and rubber strap without tools. This gives the watch greater versatility and allows it to adapt easily to different occasions and styles.
Combined with a 100-metre water resistance rating, the Santos Chronograph is well suited to daily wear, whether in the office, on weekends, in the rain or even during swimming and light water activities.
Santos de Cartier Chronograph Steel CRWSSA0083
The stainless steel CRWSSA0083 is powered by Cartier’s in-house Calibre 1904-CH MC automatic chronograph movement, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with approximately 47 hours of power reserve. The watch measures 47mm by 39.8mm and 11.6mm thick, while offering 100 metres of water resistance, making it suitable for both everyday wear and sporting activities.
Santos de Cartier Chronograph Yellow Gold & Steel CRW2SA0035
The two-tone CRW2SA0035 is also equipped with the Calibre 1904-CH MC automatic chronograph movement, running at 28,800 vibrations per hour with a power reserve of approximately 47 hours. Featuring a stainless steel and 18K yellow gold case, it shares the same dimensions as the steel model. While maintaining the sporty character of the Santos collection, the combination of steel and gold adds a touch of luxury and vintage charm.
Santos de Cartier Chronograph Yellow Gold CRWGSA0110
The full yellow gold CRWGSA0110 is powered by the same Calibre 1904-CH MC automatic chronograph movement, offering a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and around 47 hours of power reserve. The watch features a full 18K yellow gold case and integrated gold bracelet.
Generally speaking, full gold watches are often positioned as dress watches or luxury casual pieces, with water resistance ratings typically ranging from 30 to 50 metres. A chronograph with a full 18K yellow gold case and bracelet that also delivers 100 metres of water resistance is relatively uncommon in today's market. By maintaining this level of practicality, Cartier reinforces the Santos Chronograph’s position as a true luxury sports watch rather than simply a precious metal statement piece.
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