This Santos de Cartier chronograph review looks at ref. WSSA0017, a steel automatic with a silver dial, Roman numerals, and a leather strap. It is a big Santos. The case is about 43mm wide and 51mm lug to lug. Inside is the in-house Calibre 1904-CH MC with a 48-hour reserve. This pre-owned piece comes with box and papers at $8,725. You can view the Santos de Cartier WSSA0017 listing directly.
The Santos has a long story, and this chronograph carries it well. Below, we cover how it looks, how it works, and where it fits.
First Impressions and Design
The Santos shape is easy to spot. The case is square with rounded corners, and the bezel carries eight visible screws. Louis Cartier created the original for the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont in the early 1900s. Cartier calls it one of the first purpose-built wristwatches. If you are curious about the namesake, our hands-on review of the Cartier Santos-Dumont shows how the two watches differ.
This one is stainless steel, so it feels sturdy and clean. The silver dial is satin brushed. Roman numerals mark the hours, and that classic touch softens the sporty chronograph layout.
A sapphire crystal covers the dial. It resists scratches well, which matters on a watch you plan to wear often.
What a Chronograph Adds
A chronograph is a watch with a built-in stopwatch. It times short events without disturbing the hour and minute display. If you want a refresher on how it works, our guide to the chronograph watch explains the basics.
On this model, the chronograph sits beside a date. The dial still reads clearly. That balance is not easy to achieve on a square case, and it is one reason the watch stands out in the Santos range.
The Movement
Inside is Cartier’s Calibre 1904-CH MC. It is an automatic, self-winding chronograph movement. In other words, the motion of your wrist keeps it running.
The power reserve is about 48 hours. That means you can set it down for a weekend and find it still ticking. Water resistance is 100m, so it handles rain and splashes with ease.
On the Wrist
This is a bigger Santos than most. The case is about 43mm wide. The listing quotes 51mm, which is the lug-to-lug measurement. The standard Large Santos is 39.8mm wide, so this chronograph sits well above it.
That size gives the watch real presence. It suits a larger wrist, and it will look bold on a smaller one. Try it on before you decide.
The leather strap keeps the look dressy. Cartier’s QuickSwitch system lets you change straps without tools, so you can switch the mood in seconds.
Specs at a Glance
- Reference: WSSA0017
- Collection: Santos de Cartier
- Case: Stainless steel, about 43mm wide, about 51mm lug to lug
- Dial: Silver, Roman numerals
- Movement: Automatic Calibre 1904-CH MC
- Power reserve: About 48 hours
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Water resistance: 100m
- Strap: Leather
- Condition: Pre-owned
- Box and papers: Both included
Where It Fits in the Santos Line
The Santos range is wide. It includes time-only models, a skeleton, and complications such as the Santos de Cartier Dual Time. Each one suits a different wearer.
The chronograph is the choice for someone who wants a busier dial and a larger case. If you prefer a simpler, slimmer Santos, a time-only model may suit you better. You can also browse our selection of used Cartier Santos watches to compare sizes side by side.
Price and Value
Precision Watches lists this Santos de Cartier chronograph at $8,725. The box and papers are both included, which makes the listing complete. The listing also notes a two-year warranty.
Buying pre-owned lets you step into a Cartier chronograph at a lower entry point than a new one. Prices vary by reference, condition, and completeness, so compare carefully. You can see more pre-owned Cartier watches in our collection.
Treat any watch as one to wear and enjoy first. Resale outcomes are never guaranteed.
Who This Santos Is For
This watch suits someone who likes the Santos look but wants more function. The chronograph adds purpose. The steel case and leather strap keep it versatile, so it works with a suit or a weekend shirt.
It also suits a collector who already owns a time-only Santos. A chronograph adds range without leaving the family.
Buy This Santos de Cartier at Precision Watches
Precision Watches is a family-owned Authorized Cartier Watch Dealer near Philadelphia, and this pre-owned Santos de Cartier chronograph is listed with us now. You can also explore our full range of new Cartier watches.
If you own a Cartier and want to part with it, our team can help you sell your Cartier watch with a clear quote. You can also trade your timepiece toward this Santos or another piece in our showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Santos de Cartier Chronograph WSSA0017
What size is the Santos de Cartier chronograph WSSA0017?
The case is about 43mm wide. The listing quotes 51mm, which is the lug-to-lug measurement.
What movement does it use?
It uses Cartier’s automatic Calibre 1904-CH MC chronograph movement, with a power reserve of about 48 hours.
Is the Santos de Cartier chronograph automatic?
Yes. It is self-winding, so there is no battery to replace.
How water resistant is it?
It is rated to 100m.
What strap does it come with?
This pre-owned piece is on a leather strap. Cartier’s QuickSwitch system makes changing straps simple.
Does it come with box and papers?
Yes. The pre-owned WSSA0017 at Precision Watches includes both.
What functions does it have?
It shows hours, minutes, seconds, and the date, plus a chronograph.
