Strap Guide: Cartier Santos

A Brief History

The Cartier Santos is arguably one of the most iconic watches in the history of horology, with a legacy stretching back more than a century. Long before it became a status symbol or a design classic, it was a tool born out of necessity in an era when wristwatches were considered effeminate and impractical for men. In 1904, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont (yes, the very man whose name the watch now carries) shared his frustrations with his friend Louis Cartier. Piloting early aircraft required both hands at all times, and Santos-Dumont found it cumbersome and even dangerous to reach into his pocket to check the time mid-flight.

Louis Cartier, ever the innovator, crafted a solution. In 1906, Santos-Dumont set the world flight speed record in his self-designed Santos-Dumont 14-bis. During that historic moment, he was also recorded wearing a wristwatch, the Cartier Santos, becoming the first man filmed in flight and one of the first to legitimize the wristwatch as a practical tool for men. By 1911, Cartier commercialized the design, cementing the Santos as the first mass-produced men’s wristwatch and the very first pilot’s watch.

More than 100 years later, the Cartier Santos remains a timeless icon. Its rounded square case, exposed screws, and seamless blend of elegance and utility have allowed it to evolve while retaining its unmistakable identity. And today, one of the best parts of owning a Santos, aside from wearing a piece of history, is the chance to switch up its entire character with the right strap.

So, in this guide, I’ll attempt to do justice to the Santos legacy by pairing four different strap styles with the modern Santos de Cartier. Each one transforms the watch in its own way, offering versatility that makes the Santos one of the most wearable, adaptable luxury watches available.

The Original Bracelet

For many owners, the Santos bracelet is the default and often the favourite, and for good reason. Cartier designed something truly unique with its characteristic screw-decorated links and remarkably comfortable taper. The bracelet manages to be dressy without feeling delicate, sporty without appearing bulky, and unmistakably Cartier thanks to its visual continuity with the case.

Then there’s the QuickSwitch system, Cartier’s modern solution to easy strap-changing. With a simple click under the lugs, you can release the bracelet and snap in a leather or rubber option within seconds. While incredibly convenient, it’s also limiting. QuickSwitch-compatible straps are proprietary, meaning you’re restricted to Cartier's offerings or third-party straps specifically designed to support the system.

The good news? Cartier includes a leather strap in the box, so even at retail you get two distinct looks, steel and leather, right from day one.

The Original Leather Strap

Cartier’s bundled leather strap is genuinely well made, typically crafted from high-quality calfskin with a clean, elegant finish. But the drawback is obvious: you don’t get to choose the colour. Cartier assigns the leather strap colour based on the Santos variant you purchase, and if the supplied shade doesn’t suit your personal tastes or wardrobe, there’s not much you can do about it.

That’s where aftermarket straps - including ours - come in. With a wide range of colours, textures, and exotic leathers compatible with QuickSwitch hardware, you get far more freedom to personalise the Santos. In a way, we have Cartier to thank for creating demand by limiting their options.

Ostrich Leg Leather in Burgundy

If you’re looking for something bolder, more textured, and undeniably distinctive, ostrich leg leather in burgundy might be your perfect match. This material is far less common than alligator or calf, featuring natural scaling that gives each strap a unique pattern. The deep burgundy tone elevates the Santos from refined to expressive, adding character without overpowering the watch.

One of the advantages of the Santos’ clean white dial is its chameleon-like ability to pair with almost any strap colour. Burgundy, especially with the organic patterns of ostrich leg leather, stands out beautifully against the crisp dial and polished steel case. It’s a strap that transforms the watch from everyday classic to conversation piece.

Crocodile Leather in Black

On the opposite end of the spectrum is black crocodile leather, the quintessential dress-watch strap. Understated, formal, and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of strap that works for virtually any setting. Paired with the Santos, it leans into the watch’s more elegant side, making it suitable for black-tie events, weddings, business settings, or simply enhancing its daily sophistication.

Black may be boring, but it’s also the first colour that sells out for a reason. It’s timeless, flattering, and makes the Santos look effortlessly sharp. If you want a single leather strap that will always work regardless of outfit or occasion, this one is it.

Dress FKM Rubber Strap in Grey

Now let’s step away from metals and leathers and relax things a little. Rubber straps are typically associated with dive watches and sports watches, but the right rubber design can tone down the Santos while still keeping things classy. Our Dress FKM Rubber Strap in grey does exactly that.

Designed to work with the same deployant clasps Cartier uses on their leather straps, this rubber strap offers a clean, tail-free look that maintains the sleek silhouette of the Santos. FKM rubber is durable, comfortable, water-resistant, and perfect for humid climates like Singapore’s. Grey, in particular, complements the white dial and steel case without overwhelming them, bringing a modern, understated vibe that suits casual days, travel, or even light sporty wear.

Epsom Leather in Green

If exotic leathers aren’t your style, Epsom leather is an excellent alternative, and in green, it brings a refreshing pop of colour to the Santos. Epsom is known for its embossed grain, durability, and ability to hold its shape beautifully over time. It resists scuffs, moisture, and sagging, making it one of the most worry-free leathers you can wear daily.

Green pairs surprisingly well with the Santos’ clean white dial, offering a modern, stylish contrast that still feels refined. It’s a strap that adds personality without going over the top, making it a popular choice for those who want a tasteful splash of colour while keeping the overall aesthetic polished.

Final Thoughts

The Cartier Santos is more than just a watch, it’s a piece of living history, a symbol of innovation, and one of the most versatile luxury timepieces you can own. What makes it even more enjoyable is how easily it adapts to different straps, shifting between elegant, sporty, bold, or understated with just a click.

Whether you're staying faithful to the original bracelet, experimenting with exotic leathers, or dressing it down with FKM rubber, each strap brings out a different facet of the Santos’ personality. That ability to transform without losing its identity is what keeps the Santos timeless after more than a century.

At the end of the day, the best strap is the one that makes you excited to wear the watch. Treat the Santos well, customise it to suit your style, and it’ll continue to be not just a watch you own, but one you build memories with.