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 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 | About us
This vintage Cartier Santos Galbée Ref. 2319 in 29mm showcases exceptional craftsmanship with its distinctive 'tropical' guilloché dial and stainless steel construction. In very good condition, this automatic timepiece features the iconic square bezel with signature screws and blued steel hands. Complete as a full set, it represents timeless elegance perfect for both professional settings and refined social occasions.
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 Galbée 29mm Ref. 2319 “Tropical”? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made automatic Cartier Santos with a 29mm stainless‑steel case and integrated bracelet, the iconic square bezel with exposed screws, a date at 3 o’clock, blued steel hands, and Cartier’s signature blue cabochon crown. This example features a warm “tropical” guilloché dial and is delivered as a full set with box and papers.
Q: What do “Galbée” and “Tropical” mean in this context? A: “Galbée” refers to the graceful, curved case and bracelet profile that hugs the wrist. A “tropical” dial is a collector term for a dial that has naturally developed a warm patina over time, often shifting towards honey/champagne tones—valued for its unique character rather than seen as a defect.
Q: Which movement does it use, and does it have a quickset date? A: The Santos Galbée Ref. 2319 is powered by an automatic, Cartier‑signed Swiss movement. Many Galbée automatics feature a quickset date function, but exact calibre/features can vary by production batch—contact us and we’ll verify the movement and date mechanism for this specific watch.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely on this watch? A: Pull the crown out gently: Position 1 winds the movement if it has stopped; Position 2 typically quicksets the date; Position 3 sets the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown back in firmly to help maintain light moisture resistance.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I wear it in the rain or swim with it? A: Water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best; avoid swimming, showering and submersion. Keep the crown fully pushed in and have gaskets checked if light moisture resistance is important to you.
Q: What crystal and crown details does it have? A: Santos Galbée models are commonly fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal. This piece also features Cartier’s signature blue sapphire cabochon crown as stated. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this exact watch, please ask and we’ll verify.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized? A: The bracelet length is approximately 18cm. The integrated steel bracelet can be sized by adding or removing links; additional genuine links may be sourced subject to availability. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise on fit and pre‑dispatch sizing options.
Q: How does the 29mm case wear, and is it suitable for daily use? A: The 29mm Galbée wears with elegant, vintage proportions—ideal for smaller wrists or anyone who prefers a refined, slim profile. The Santos design is versatile for daily wear and dressy occasions; as with any vintage piece, treat it with care and avoid harsh impacts or moisture.
Q: What’s the significance of the bezel screws on the Santos? A: The exposed screws are a hallmark of the Santos, echoing early aviation engineering and adding a distinctive, utilitarian aesthetic. They secure the bezel assembly; they are not intended for user adjustment—any case work should be done by a professional watchmaker.
Q: What servicing and accuracy should I expect from a vintage automatic Cartier? A: Performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if you notice issues (e.g., running fast/slow, condensation). Keep it away from strong magnets and chemicals, and wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth after wear.
Q: Is it authentic, and what is included along with warranty and shipping? A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. This watch is delivered as a full set (box and papers). All watches include a 12‑month mechanical guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.
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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
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.
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.
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.
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.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
3 430 £
46%
off retail price
• Stainless steel case and bracelet
• Square bezel with screws
• "Tropical" guilloché dial with black Roman numerals
• Blued steel hands
• Date display at 3 o'clock
• Automatic movement
• Sapphire cabochon crown
• Vintage
