In 1847, the newly minted master jeweler Louis-François Cartier took over the jewelry workshop of his master teacher in Paris. Within a few years, Cartier enjoyed great success with his extraordinary jewelry creations. Important personalities such as Princess Mathilde, niece of Napoleon I, and the French Empress Eugenie became Cartier's customers. After from 1898 with Louis-François' grandson Louis Cartier already the third generation took over the scepter, the store is moved in 1899 to the famous Rue de la Paix, where it is still located today.
With Louis' ingenuity and his clear, consistent watch creations, Cartier henceforth clearly stands out from the field of the usual products also as a watch manufacturer. Jewelry and watch classics are created, which have become timeless milestones in their inimitable way.

Santos - The Classic.
In 1904, Louis Cartier fulfilled the wish of the famous Brazilian pilot Alberto Santos Dumont: to be able to read the time during flight. But not a pocket watch that had to be awkwardly pulled out of a trouser pocket. It was going to be more practical. He turned to Louis Cartier, who developed a sturdy wristwatch for him. The rounded corners of the dial, the seamless transition to the strap lugs and the distinctive screws gave the watch icon a character that has been reinterpreted again and again to this day.