The 2025 Santos de Cartier Titanium & a Black Dial with Superluminova for the Santos

Intro

In 1904, Louis Cartier created the Santos for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, blending practicality with elegance in one of the first wristwatches ever designed for men. Over a century later, Cartier continues to reinterpret that very same formula. For 2025, the maison introduces two new Santos de Cartier references: one crafted entirely in titanium, and another in stainless steel with a black luminous dial. These novelties reaffirm the Santos model as a contemporary timepiece, capable of evolving while retaining its core identity.

Design and aesthetics

The Titanium version (CRWSSA0089) features a fully matte finish, giving the watch a rugged, industrial character that is unusual for Cartier. Its anthracite tone and black crown complete the stealthy yet refined look.

The Black dial version in steel (CRWSSA0096)  marks the first use of Super-LumiNova® in the Santos line. The dial features a vertical satin finish, White Roman numerals, and the hands that glow green in the dark enhance readability and introduce a sportier look.

Both are housed in the "large" 39.8 mm x 9.3 mm Santos case, water-resistant to 100 m, and are equipped with Cartier’s QuickSwitch system for interchangeable bracelets and straps.

Movement and mechanics

Nothing new here, nor special. Inside both models beats Cartier’s in-house automatic caliber 1847 MC with a 42-hour power reserve. It includes a date display and is not chronometer-certified.

Pricing and availability

The new steel version of the Cartier Santos with a black dial (or Santos de Cartier, if you prefer) will be in boutiques immediately for a price $8,650, while the titanium model will be available from November 1, 2025, for $11,500. Price in € will be similar

Nerbezel's verdict 

The new Santos duo continues Cartier’s exploration of contrast between materials, finishes, and looks. The titanium model offers a stealthy, technical interpretation, while the black dial means functional sportiness using luminescence. Together, they show that the Santos can remain fresh without surrendering its century-old DNA.

I believe that Newcomers to the brand and collectors seeking a subtler, fresher, or tool-like Cartier will find both of these 2025 editions a compelling iteration. Probably, Cartier has thought of the Titanium model as an entry-level reference to the brand, providing more options to the younger generations besides the Panthere and Santos Dumont.