The dark elegance of the Replica Cartier Santos 100 Carbon

Maybe you have forgotten that Cartier’s only men’s release of 2016 was the Drive de Cartier. But in addition to this handsome new collection Cartier decided to revive one of the dark horses of their collection – the Replica Santos 100 Carbon.

Until 2012, if the regular metal versions of the Santos weren’t your thing, you could opt for a version decked out in ADLC (amorphous diamond-like carbon). This year Cartier has reintroduced the replica Carbon Santos 100 in the tough-looking (and virtually scratch-proof) black ADLC coating. What’s different this time around? Well, now you get the in-house 1847 MC automatic movement, which adds value and shows that Cartier is still committed to integrate manufacture movements across their collections.

Replica Cartier Santos 100 Carbon

Cartier is renowned for its replica square and rectangular timepieces, and aside from the Tank, the Santos 100 is one of their most iconic designs. The Santos was designed for pioneering aviator Albert Santos Dumont, who wanted to be able to tell the time while flying back in 1904 – so simplicity and maximum legibility was front of mind. These day’s it’s often the model for those that are looking for something a little bolder, and at 51.1mm by 41.3mm the Santos 100 is plenty bold. But even though the watch is fully blacked out, it’s unmistakably Cartier. Bringing the black Santos 100 back makes perfect sense when you think about it. This casually  replica elegant watch, with its textile strap and popping red second hand, offers a dark counterpoint to the Drive de Cartier’s dressy elegance.