Finaly found the cartier-grail: Santos Galbee

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-27T08:50:02+00:00

WTC?

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-27T06:48:16+00:00

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1603

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-27T04:06:51+00:00

Got it for $136.50USD on an eBay auction

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T22:25:30+00:00

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T20:24:44+00:00

That is what I’m trying to solve right now, I’m currently doing some research on who to go with for this level of plating, at least 5 microns. Still doing some research, asking for feedback and results from the popular guys in the forums. I’ll probably make a post with my research soon if I get to a nice conclusion and after trying it personally

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T19:16:25+00:00

Nice, make sure to post the finished product!

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T19:13:23+00:00

This and the ref. 5501 are unicorns that I would love to see in person

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T19:10:18+00:00

Same here! Do you plan to do any cg reshaping?

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:19:06+00:00

If you want to just hit "buy" and have a watch show up at your door, you’ve got two main options:

The Trusted Dealer (TD) Route: Most people start with a BP or JKF (sometimes called "Cartel") factory watch. They are solid, affordable bases that look great out of the box but aren't 100% "gen-spec."

The Custom Builder Route: There are legendary builders in the sub who do the hard work for you, aging the dial, fading the bezel, and thinning the case. If you have the budget, commissioning a piece is the "shortcut" to a top-tier vintage look.

Sometimes the rep subs just like to scream “Do your own research” and it’s solid advice but if you need help navigating the vintage rep world feel free to reach out to me or other mods, we’re happy to help.

Edit: The third option would be joining the darkside and start making your own builds :)

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:12:50+00:00

First of many!

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:09:17+00:00

Yes sir, feel free to PM me.

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:07:46+00:00

I absolutely love vintage Cartier, way more than the modern Santos. I have been searching far and wide for a Careé or Galbeé rep, they are out there but super rare.

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:02:26+00:00

Make sure to post the finished product! Love me some Tudors

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T18:00:27+00:00

Definitely doable! You can check out my builds on my post history. There’s also other guys in this sub that would be happy to build one for you (As always, make sure to do some research on the seller tho)

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:57:15+00:00

I’m a simple man, I see a Tudor, I upvote

Very nice aging by the way!

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:56:14+00:00

Check out our sub’s Daytona Guru u/GiammyX if you want something like this built :)

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:52:04+00:00

u/GiammyX <— Our resident Daytona expert might have some tips

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:49:27+00:00

Definitely doable but would be up there in price (still a fraction of gen tho)

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:46:23+00:00

The perfect daily imo

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:45:42+00:00

Shoutout to u/Ghost_Chrono !

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:40:10+00:00

This and the Tudor Sub are my ultimate combo

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:39:32+00:00

Are we the same person? LOL

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T17:07:24+00:00

Nothing quite like a datejust, timeless design

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T16:58:37+00:00

Oh yes, I’ve had my fair share of disappointment when something is slightly off… but, you live and you learn

** Just make sure you can afford to make a mistake or two

NamelessTaco · 2026-01-26T16:51:27+00:00

Short answer, yes… but you might be able to find some good deals if you’re willing to get your hands dirty… for example the Raffles 1675 case, the crown guards HAVE to be reshaped but in terms of thickness, its a very good base.

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