BEST FACE FORWARD

Call them icons if you like, these instantly recognisable timepieces are the distinct faces of these watchmakers.

- Asaph Low

CARTIER SANTOS-DUMONT DE CARTIER

Widely regarded as the pioneer of pilot watches, the Cartier Santos was born in 1904 as a tool watch for Brazilian aviator and friend of Louis Cartier, Alberto Santos-Dumont. Instead of taking a utilitarian design language, it was guided by the three main principles — namely elegance, simplicity, and practicality — of Santos-Dumont. Since then, it has become an instantly recognisable icon in the world of watchmaking, with the Cartier Santos-Dumont collection later created as a tribute to the historic model. A tonal execution marks this year’s release as the rose gold case is matched with a smooth beige lacquer bezel. The sophistication extends to the dial as concentric patterning adds subtle visual interest, and the sapphire cabochon crown is an inimitable signature of Cartier. Limited to 250 pieces worldwide, Cartier’s manual winding calibre 430 MC Manufacture movement maintains a svelte profile for the watch.

A. LANGE & SÖHNE GRAND LANGE 1