For many of us, 2020 won’t seem that far off, but (and I hate to be the bearer of this news), it was more than half a decade ago. Which means that we’ve been living with the Cartier de Santos Chronograph for more than five years, and it seems that Cartier has been paying attention, as they’ve decided to update one of their sportiest references in subtle but significant ways.

The most notable change is the position of the pushers. The 2020 design featured an unusual 9 o’clock pusher for the chronograph, whereas this version returns the pushers to the more conventional crownside positions. On top of that, much work has been done on the dial, with upsized registers, circled in polished rhodium or gold for maximum balance and legibility. On top of that, the other hour track has a clear sunray finish while the inner dial section is vertically brushed, adding depth and contrast, while preserving that classic Cartier look. Taken individually, these changes might seem inconsequential, but the overall impact of wearing this watch on your wrist is harmonious and balanced, very much in keeping with the long legacy of the Santos de Cartier.

The case remains exceptionally familiar — though subtle improvements are evident here too. In terms of size, it’s a larger model, which makes sense given the chronograph. It clocks in at 47.5mm top to bottom and 39.8mm across, meaning it definitely has presence, but the height of 11.6mm is far from overwhelming. At the moment, it’s offered in a classic Cartier trilogy of options: steel, full yellow gold and a steel and yellow gold version, which offers the best of both worlds with a gold bezel and bracelet screws, paired with the hardiness of steel everywhere else. As per usual, these watches have Cartier’s Smartlink and QuickSwitch systems, placing wearability at the centre of the design, and each watch comes with an additional strap. Matte alligator for the full gold and rubber for the other two. This refreshed Santos de Cartier Chronograph is an excellent example of how Cartier’s famous sports watch has changed — and remained relevant — over time. With careful care and design consideration.

Tech Specs: Cartier Santos de Cartier Chronograph

Movement Calibre 1904-CH, automatic, 47 hours of power reserve
Functions Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph
Case Steel, steel and yellow gold or yellow gold, 47.5 x 39.8 x 11.6mm, water resistant to 100M
Dial Silvered satin-finish and sunray dial
Strap Bracelet matching case materials, additional strap in rubber or alligator, depending on model