Cartier Santos

The Fusion of Aviation Pioneer Spirit and High-End Jewelry Art

The WSSA0018 in the "Large" size is known for its distinctive square silhouette. The case and integrated bracelet provide a perfect stage for an all-over Diamond setting that captures the light with every movement, thanks to the combination of cool stainless steel and warm Rose Gold (bicolor).

Design and Setting

• The Case: The Santos is characterized by its gently curved lugs and the iconic bezel, here executed in 18-carat Rose Gold. In an "Iced Out" version, both the bezel and the case flanks are precisely set with Diamonds.

• The Dial: Traditionally, the WSSA0018 features a silvered opaline dial with Roman numerals. Fully set models often also have the dial adorned in a pavé style with brilliant-cut Diamonds, while Cartier’s typical blue sword hands provide the necessary contrast for legibility.

• The Crown: The seven-sided crown is traditionally set with a faceted blue synthetic spinel on Cartier watches, adding an elegant color accent amid the Diamond sparkle.

Technical Details: Caliber 1847 MC

Behind the radiant facade beats a state-of-the-art mechanical heart:

• Movement: The manufacture caliber 1847 MC with automatic winding. It was specially developed for resistance to magnetic fields (up to 1,200 gauss), which is a significant advantage in the digital age.

• Dimensions: The "Large" version measures approximately 39.8 mm in width and is remarkably slim at only 9.38 mm in height, ensuring an elegant silhouette despite the setting.

• Date: The Date window is located at the 6 o’clock position.

Innovation in the Bracelet: SmartLink & QuickSwitch

One of the strongest selling points of the 2021 Santos is the user-friendliness of the bracelet:

• QuickSwitch: The patented system allows the metal bracelet to be swapped for a leather strap without tools.

• SmartLink: The length of the link bracelet can be adjusted at individual links with a simple push of a button – a milestone for wearing comfort, especially with massive bicolor models.

Important Note on Collector Value: For "Iced Out" models, a distinction is made between Factory Set (originally set by Cartier) and Aftermarket Setting (set afterwards). Factory models generally achieve significantly higher resale prices and retain the full manufacturer’s warranty. An aftermarket setting makes the watch a unique individual piece but changes the original reference characteristics.

Conclusion: The Cartier Santos WSSA0018 from 2021 in the "Iced Out" variant is the perfect choice for someone who appreciates the historical significance of the Santos line but does not want to compromise on appearance. It is a powerful blend of technical finesse and absolute luxury.