Visual Description
The Ref. 0902 is the Santos at its ladies' size: a 24 × 34.5 mm stainless steel case with an 18k yellow gold bezel fixed by exposed screws. The white dial carries black Roman numerals and a railroad minute track. The integrated bracelet combines steel and 18k yellow gold and closes with a folding clasp.
Reference Significance
The 0902 is the ladies' steel and gold automatic of the original Santos line, the smaller companion to the 29 × 41 mm Ref. 2961 in steel and gold and the Ref. 2960 in gold or steel.
Sellers name it inconsistently, as a Santos, a Santos Carrée or even a Santos Galbée; the reference number on the case back is what identifies it.
Historical Context
Dated examples run from circa 1982, the date Dorotheum gives one, through the 1980s and into the 1990s; nothing found pins the end of production.
The movement is the Cartier cal. 076, an automatic built on the ETA 2671. Monaco Legend and Dorotheum both name cal. 076, and Dorotheum counts 25 jewels.
What to Look For
The two metals need separate inspection. The 18k gold bezel should show even color with no thinning from polishing, and the bezel screws should match in head finish and slot depth.
Bracelet condition matters most. Test each link for lateral play and check the folding clasp for wear.
Confirm the movement is automatic; every auction and dealer record consulted describes the 0902 that way. The crown stone should be intact, and the case back should carry the reference number and Cartier markings.
