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.
Perfect for boardroom meetings and evening receptions alike, this vintage Cartier Santos Octagon 25mm adds quiet sophistication to tailored looks. The cream dial and steel-and-gold tones pair effortlessly with a suit or cocktail attire, elevating milestone dinners and weekend city evenings.
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 Octagon 25mm Ref. 187903? A: It’s a vintage two‑tone Santos featuring a 25mm stainless steel case with an 18k yellow‑gold octagonal bezel, a cream dial with black Roman numerals and a date at 3 o’clock, a reliable Swiss quartz movement, a crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon, and a stainless steel bracelet accented by 18k yellow‑gold screws.
Q: Is this watch quartz and does it need a battery? A: Yes. The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz movement that requires a battery. Typical battery life is around 2–3 years; we recommend professional replacement so the gaskets can be checked and the case properly resealed.
Q: Is it water‑resistant? A: As with any vintage watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without a recent pressure test. Please treat it as splash‑resistant only and avoid swimming, showering, or full submersion unless a watchmaker has tested and confirmed its seals.
Q: Will this watch fit my wrist? A: This specific piece is sized to fit a wrist of up to 17 cm. The bracelet can be shortened by removing links. Additional links are not included with this listing; if you require a larger size, compatible links may be sourced separately by a watch specialist.
Q: Can I swap the bracelet for a leather strap? A: The Santos Octagon uses an integrated bracelet design. Converting to a strap typically requires model‑specific end links and the help of a skilled watchmaker. It is not a simple quick‑release swap.
Q: What is the condition of this particular watch? A: It is graded Very Good overall with light traces of use. There are surface scratches on the case, case back and bracelet consistent with age and careful wear; please review the photos for a close look.
Q: What exactly is two‑tone on this model? A: The case and bracelet are primarily stainless steel, while the octagonal bezel is crafted from 18k yellow gold and the bracelet features 18k yellow‑gold screws. This combination delivers Cartier’s signature steel‑and‑gold aesthetic.
Q: How do I set the time and date? A: Gently pull the crown to the first click to set the date, and to the second click to set the time. After adjustment, press the crown back in firmly. To protect the mechanism, avoid changing the date between about 9 pm and 3 am.
Q: Is this size considered women’s or unisex? A: Historically, 25mm Santos Octagon models were marketed to women, but today many collectors of all genders appreciate the elegant, compact proportions of vintage Cartier designs.
Q: What is included and is there a warranty? A: This listing is for the watch only (no original box or papers). A Retro Tale guarantees 100% authenticity and provides a 12‑month movement warranty covering the watch’s functional performance, along with secure, insured delivery and a 14‑day return policy.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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
/ Womens watches
• Stainless steel and 18k yellow gold case
• Octagonal 18k yellow gold bezel
• Cream dial with black Roman numerals
• Date display at 3 o'clock
• Quartz movement
• Crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon
• Stainless steel bracelet with 18k yellow gold screws
• Vintage
