Cartier Santos 100 2878 W20129U2: A Steel Santos with White Rubber Strap
The Cartier Santos 100 with case reference 2878 and model reference W20129U2 is the medium size Santos 100 in stainless steel, paired with a white rubber strap. It combines one of the most recognisable watch designs in history with a sporty, contemporary twist. The square case with exposed screws, the Roman numerals and the sword-shaped hands are all classic Santos elements, while the white strap gives the W20129U2 a fresh and relaxed character.
The story of the Santos begins in 1904, when Louis Cartier created a wristwatch for his friend Alberto Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian aviation pioneer who needed to read the time without taking his hands off the controls. The result is regarded as one of the first modern wristwatches. Cartier introduced the Santos to a wider public in 1911, and ever since, its square case and visible screws have been part of the visual identity of the Maison. More background on the collection can be found on the official Cartier Santos de Cartier page.
The Santos 100 was introduced in 2004 to celebrate the centenary of that first Santos. Compared with earlier Santos models, it has a larger and more pronounced case, with broad lugs that flow into the strap and a bezel that emphasises the square shape. The collection was offered in several sizes and materials, and remained part of the Cartier catalogue until the Santos was redesigned as the Santos de Cartier in 2018. Today, the Santos 100 is therefore mainly available as a pre-owned watch.
Why the Cartier Santos 100 2878 Remains a Compelling Choice
The design of the Santos 100 is defined by its architecture. The square bezel carries eight visible screws, a detail that has become synonymous with the Santos, and the case sides are shaped to flow naturally into the strap. The winding crown is octagonal and protected by the case, another signature Cartier element. In this reference, the case is made of brushed stainless steel, which gives the watch a sporty, understated finish that works well with the rubber strap.
The medium case of the 2878 measures approximately 33mm wide, which makes it one of the more versatile sizes in the Santos 100 range. It has a clear presence on the wrist without feeling oversized, and it suits both men and women who prefer a watch with character but balanced proportions. The square shape wears differently from a round watch of similar diameter, as it covers more of the wrist and gives a more architectural look.
The silvered opaline dial features painted Roman numerals, arranged radially around the dial, and an inner minute track in the style of a railway track. The sword-shaped hands are luminous, so the time remains readable in low light. As on many Cartier watches, a small secret signature is hidden in one of the Roman numerals. The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the case is water resistant to 100 metres, which makes the watch suitable for everyday use.
Inside the Santos 100 2878 is the Cartier calibre 049, a self-winding mechanical movement. Automatic winding means that the watch is powered by the natural movement of the wrist, so there is no need to wind it daily when worn regularly. For many buyers, this combination of a mechanical movement and a clean, highly legible dial is a large part of the appeal of the Santos 100.
What sets the W20129U2 apart within the Santos 100 range is the white rubber strap. The strap is attached to the case in the characteristic Santos way, continuing the lines of the case, and is closed with a steel buckle. The white rubber gives the watch a summery, sporty look that stands out from the more common leather and steel bracelet versions, while the steel case keeps it elegant enough for smarter occasions. As rubber is a wear part, the strap on an individual example may have been replaced over the years.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Santos 100 represents an important chapter in the modern history of the Santos. It was the model that marked the centenary of one of the first wristwatches, and it bridged the classic Santos Galbée and the current Santos de Cartier. Because the collection is no longer in production, buying pre-owned is the way to own this reference. A well-preserved Santos 100 has lasting appeal and continues to attract interest from enthusiasts who value iconic design and a watch that is instantly recognisable as a Cartier.
Whether you are looking for a distinctive luxury watch for everyday wear or adding a Cartier icon to an existing collection, the Cartier Santos 100 2878 W20129U2 is a well-considered choice. It combines the heritage of the Santos with a sporty white rubber strap and a comfortable medium size. Every pre-owned luxury watch from Langedyk Vintage Watches is supplied with an authenticity report. Explore our complete Cartier collection to discover more watches from the Maison.
