Cover Sebastian Stan wears Santos de Cartier in steel
Sebastian Stan wears Santos de Cartier in steel
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The Santos de Cartier, a horological icon for over a century, receives the Hollywood treatment from Marvel Studios’ alum Sebastian Stan
Named after aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Santos de Cartier was born from friendship and necessity. Dumont, a visionary who became the first to circle the Eiffel Tower by air, lamented the impracticality of checking a pocket watch mid-flight. In response, Louis Cartier created the Santos in 1904—touted to be the world’s first purpose-built men’s wristwatch, a timepiece that marked a new era in both horology and modern design.
Breaking from the rounded form of pocket watches, the Santos introduced a bold square bezel accented with exposed screws and a sapphire-set crown. Its symmetry, Roman numerals, and industrial flair became enduring codes, establishing the model as a symbol of refined rebellion.
More than a century later, the Santos remains an icon of timeless practicality. It now comes in two new renditions: titanium case with white dial and steel with black dial. The former features black spinel on the crown, while the latter stands out with hands coated in Super-Luminova green.
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Santos de Cartier in steel
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Modelled by Cartier ambassador Sebastian Stan in a series of exclusive photos, the Santos ascends to starry heights, befitting its status as one of the maison’s most beloved timepiece. Stan was a Golden Globe winner at this year’s ceremony for his performance in A Different Man, but he is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Bucky Barnes/ The Winter Soldier in the Marvel superhero franchise. He recently returned to this role in Thunderbolts: The New Avengers, which was partly shot in Kuala Lumpur. Other notable credits include The Apprentice, I, Tonya, and Pam & Tommy, which chronicles the turbulent marriage of Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee.
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In this interview provided by Cartier, Stan talks about working with the maison and his thoughts on the new Santos.
Above Sebastian Stan, wearing the steel Santos de Cartier, won the Golden Globe for his performance in ‘A Different Man’
Sebastian Stan, wearing the steel Santos de Cartier, won the Golden Globe for his performance in ‘A Different Man’
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Tell us more about your relationship with Cartier watches
I’ve always loved old films from the ’40s and ’50s, and I just liked the way people looked and dressed at that time, and I noticed that many actors were wearing Cartier watches! Their pieces have such a timeless and effortless quality. They are just as relevant today as they were back then, which is kind of incredible. I’ve been wearing Cartier for several years now. To me, it’s instantly classic, something that never goes out of style.
What do you look for in a timepiece?
A watch is such an essential piece. For me, it has to be more than just something that tells time. I think it should say something about you. I also like having a watch because otherwise, I’m constantly checking my phone, which I do not like and really try to avoid. A watch lets you disconnect a bit. For me, it needs also to be something with presence. It’s not just about style, it’s about how it makes you feel when you wear it.
Above Sebastian Stan wears the titanium Santos de Cartier
Sebastian Stan wears the titanium Santos de Cartier
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What drew you most to the Santos de Cartier?
I would say its bold style and iconic design. Also, I like that the Santos is versatile, it works just as well with something elegant as it does with a more casual, relaxed look. I like wearing my Santos slightly loose, it feels great on the wrist. It almost feels like it has a life of its own. It’s almost like now I cannot leave the house unless I feel it on my wrist. I’ve long appreciated the collection and it’s interesting to see its continued development. The latest additions, particularly the black dial and titanium versions, are quite compelling. They both have a strong, masculine energy. I’m really into how Cartier explores materials and plays with that hardware aesthetic. I think it reflects the Maison’s creativity in a powerful way.
What’s your relationship with time—both in your life and your career?
Time is one of the few things we can’t control, but it makes it incredibly meaningful. In my career, timing has often been everything, whether it’s choosing a role, waiting for the right project, or learning to be patient with the process. In life, I try to stay present, so wearing a watch reminds me to value time.
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
