The Relationship between Cartier and Santos=Dumont goes far beyond their friendship. As one of the most recognized brands in the watchmaking world, known for combining genius, tradition, and modernity, Cartier has taken another bold step that would excite both Louis and Alberto S=D. Introducing the Santos-Dumont Rewind, a watch that truly embodies the spirit of the Father of Aviation.
The name of Santos=Dumont, widely considered the patron of the first commercially available men's wristwatch dating back to 1904, is experiencing an intriguing resurgence with this incredible piece.
With its iconic lacquered back, in this case, a carnelian red, and the famous rounded-square case, the Santos=Dumont Rewind features a curious and innovative attribute: it tells time backward. This is a tribute to the brilliant Brazilian inventor known for his innovative spirit and for challenging established conventions.
The new edition retains the 430 MC movement, which is an ultra-thin Piaget 430 MC movement. The case dimensions are 31.4 mm in diameter, 43.5 mm in length, and 7.3 mm in height, providing a super thin and comfortable design to wear.
On the dial of the Santos=Dumont Rewind, the Roman numerals are arranged so that, when read clockwise, they go from 12 at the top, to 11, then 10, and so on. This setup, which some might consider a "gimmick," is presented in a way that demands to be taken seriously, especially considering its $38,400 price tag in a platinum case.
Why Does It Run Counterclockwise?
The most fascinating aspect of the Santos=Dumont Rewind is its connection to the history of sundials. Modern mechanical watches run clockwise because they were invented in the Northern Hemisphere, where sundials mark the hours in that direction. In the Southern Hemisphere, however, sundials mark time counterclockwise.
Therefore, this Cartier watch serves as a reflection not only on the historical and geographical influences on the evolution of watches but also references the brilliant yet under-recognized scientists of the Southern Hemisphere.
Ultimately, this ingenious product of fashion, beauty, and technology pays a significant tribute to Santos=Dumont himself, representing the multidimensional thinking of the inventor who gave us wings.
With the Santos=Dumont Rewind, Cartier not only honors a South American genius but also challenges traditional watchmaking conventions.
However, as with any current topic, there are those who disapprove of the invention, claiming that Santos=Dumont was a very superstitious man and did not like anything that went backward. It is said that he only reversed his automobiles in very specific situations and might not have liked having his name associated with something that was going in the opposite direction.
We have yet to receive an official statement from the Instituto Cultural santos=Dumont (Santos=Dumont Cultural Institute), the institution that represents the family's interests.
This watch, with its time-telling from a Southern Hemisphere perspective, symbolizes Santos=Dumont's innovative spirit and invites watch enthusiasts to see time in a new way. It is a fitting tribute to an inventor who always thought outside the box and continues to inspire generations with his genius and vision.
