We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
This distinguished Cartier Santos Galbée Ref. 1564 in stainless steel showcases the iconic 29mm square case with signature screw details. In good condition, it features an off-white dial with Roman numerals and blued-steel hands. The reliable quartz movement ensures precise timekeeping. Complete with its certificate, this vintage timepiece embodies Cartier's legendary craftsmanship and timeless design.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Cartier Santos Galbée 29mm Ref. 1564? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made Cartier Santos with the curved “Galbée” case and integrated bracelet in stainless steel. The 29mm square case features the signature screw‑detail bezel, an off‑white dial with Roman numerals, blued‑steel sword hands, and a date window. This example is powered by a reliable quartz movement and is delivered with a certificate as stated.
Q: What makes the Galbée different from other Santos models? A: The Galbée is known for its softly curved case and bracelet links that hug the wrist, giving a sleek, comfortable profile. It retains the iconic Santos design codes—square case, visible screws on the bezel and bracelet, and classic Roman numerals with a railway minute track—while wearing slightly more streamlined than some straight‑lug Santos variants.
Q: Which movement does it use and how long will the battery last? A: This reference typically uses a Swiss quartz movement for dependable accuracy and low maintenance. Battery life is usually around 2–3 years depending on use and storage. Please have a professional confirm the exact battery type for this specific piece when it’s due for replacement.
Q: Does it have a date complication and how do I set it? A: Yes—there’s a date at 3 o’clock. Pull the crown gently: first click to quickset the date, second click to set the time. Avoid changing the date between approximately 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. Push the crown back in firmly when finished.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I wear it in the rain or swim with it? A: As a vintage watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best and avoid swimming, showering or submersion. Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in before any light exposure to moisture.
Q: What crystal and materials does this model use? A: The watch is stainless steel. Most Santos Galbée models feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal; if you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this specific example, please contact us and we’ll verify it for you.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized? A: The listed bracelet length is approximately 18 cm. The integrated bracelet uses screwed links and can be sized by removing/adding links. We can size it prior to dispatch, and additional genuine links may be sourced subject to availability—share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise options.
Q: Are the bezel screws functional and should I adjust them? A: The screws are part of the Santos’s design and secure components; they are not intended for user adjustments. Do not attempt to turn or remove them yourself. If refinishing or parts work is desired, consult a qualified watchmaker or Cartier service centre.
Q: How should I care for the stainless steel case/bracelet and blued‑steel hands? A: Wipe surfaces with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasive pads, polishes, solvents, perfumes and lotions, which can mark the steel or dull finishes. Store away from humidity and extreme heat. The blued hands are colour‑achieved by heat treatment—handle the watch carefully and avoid harsh chemicals to preserve their hue.
Q: What servicing and accuracy should I expect from a vintage quartz Cartier? A: Quartz watches generally keep very stable time with minimal upkeep. Replace the battery every 2–3 years and have seals/gaskets inspected if moisture resistance is important. A routine check/service every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if you notice issues such as stopping, condensation or erratic timekeeping.
Q: Is it authentic, and what warranty and shipping do you offer? A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. This watch is delivered with a certificate as stated. All watches include a 12‑month movement guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
• Stainless steel
• 29mm square case
• Bezel with signature screw details
• Off-white dial with Roman numerals
• Blued-steel sword-shaped hands
• Date display
• Quartz movement
• Vintage
