This Cartier Santos Octagon LM, reference 187902, is a 1989–1990 two-tone quartz Santos with an eight-sided gold-toned bezel, stainless-steel bracelet, Roman-numeral dial and date display.
Why It’s Special
The Octagon is an uncommon branch of the Santos family, using an eight-sided bezel to give Cartier’s screw-motif sports-watch vocabulary a more geometric profile. It belongs to the neo-vintage period when Cartier was refining its jewellery-watch identity through mixed-metal construction, compact proportions and a highly recognisable Roman-dial formula. Its configuration is a clear alternative to the more familiar square Santos cases.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The champagne dial shows a consistent, attractive patina with crisp Roman numerals and blued sword hands. The stainless-steel case and bracelet retain sharp lines, while the solid 18K gold bezel has been lightly polished in recent years to refresh its appearance. Minor hairlines and natural wear are visible under close inspection, consistent with careful use. Bracelet shows light stretch but maintains a firm, secure fit. The included Cartier presentation box shows light interior ageing consistent with long-term storage.
Performance
Quartz movement running correctly with a fresh battery installed August 2025.
Details
Reference: 187902 Movement: Cartier quartz Serial: 17257 Case: 30 × 38 mm stainless steel with solid 18K yellow-gold bezel and screws Crystal: Sapphire Bracelet: Integrated two-tone Santos “Combi” bracelet (fits ≈ 17.1 cm wrist) Inclusions: Period-correct inner box – no papers Provenance: Sourced from Japan and inspected in Melbourne
