We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This vintage Cartier Santos Rondo watch exemplifies timeless sophistication with its elegant 30mm case crafted in two-tone stainless steel and gold, featuring a refined off-white/silver dial. In very good condition, this beautifully preserved timepiece showcases the brand's iconic design through its precise quartz movement and secure deployant clasp. Whether you're attending business meetings, enjoying formal occasions, or seeking a versatile everyday luxury watch, this classic Santos Rondo brings authentic Cartier refinement to any ensemble while maintaining its distinguished vintage appeal.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Cartier Santos Rondo 30mm Ref 1551? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made Cartier Santos with a round (“Rondo”) case, powered by a quartz movement. This reference features a two‑tone stainless steel and gold case and bracelet, an off‑white/silver dial, and a secure deployant clasp. The 30mm case offers an elegant, refined presence.
Q: What movement and battery does it use, and how long will the battery last? A: The watch uses a Swiss quartz movement. Most Cartier quartz models take a standard 1.55V silver‑oxide button cell, but the exact type can vary—please have a watchmaker confirm the correct battery for this reference. Typical battery life is about 2–3 years depending on use and storage.
Q: Is it water‑resistant? A: As with most vintage watches, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best and avoid showering, swimming, or submersion. If light moisture resistance is desired, ask a qualified watchmaker to inspect and replace gaskets and pressure‑test the watch. Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in.
Q: Will the 30mm size suit my wrist, and is it unisex? A: A 30mm case generally suits petite to medium wrists and offers a classic, understated look. While historically marketed towards women, it can be worn unisex depending on style preference. The bracelet on this piece fits up to approximately 15.75cm; contact us with your wrist measurement for fit advice.
Q: Can the bracelet be resized, and are extra links available? A: Yes—Cartier bracelets are typically adjusted by adding or removing links. We can size the bracelet for you before dispatch, and additional links may be sourced subject to availability and potential cost. Share your wrist size and we’ll advise.
Q: How do I operate the deployant clasp? A: To open, gently press the release points and unfold the clasp. To close, align the bracelet ends and press until it clicks securely. Avoid forcing the mechanism; if it feels tight, check alignment and try again.
Q: How do I set the time on this quartz Santos? A: Gently pull the crown out and rotate to set the hands to the correct time, then push the crown back in to start the movement. If your specific example has a date complication, avoid changing the date between approximately 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism.
Q: How often should a quartz Cartier be serviced? A: Quartz watches generally require a battery change every 2–3 years. A full service is recommended only if there are issues such as moisture, erratic timekeeping, or significant wear. Periodic gasket checks and pressure tests are advisable if you want reliable splash resistance.
Q: What is included with this watch, and is it authentic? A: As noted in the listing, this piece is delivered with no additional accessories. A Retro Tale specialises in authentic luxury vintage accessories; every item is professionally inspected and comes with our authenticity guarantee. We’re happy to share further photos or details on request.
Q: How should I clean and care for a two‑tone steel and gold Cartier? A: Wipe the case and bracelet with a soft microfibre cloth. For light cleaning, use a barely damp cloth and dry immediately—avoid soaking, abrasive pads, alcohol, acetone, and harsh chemicals. Keep the watch away from extreme temperatures and store it separately to prevent scratches.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
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/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
- Santos Rondo Ref. 1551
- Quartz movement
- Stainless steel and gold case
- Off-White/Silver dial
- Stainless steel and gold bracelet with deployant clasp
- 30mm case dimension
- Bracelet Length ca 15,75cm
