Case #432 — Cartier Santos-Dumont Large Ref. WSSA0085

Case #316 — Cartier Santos-Dumont Large  Ref. WSSA0085

Status: Active Investigation
Condition: Excellent Pre-Owned
Scope: Warranty Card (Includes Non-Cartier Presentation Box)
Year: 2025

🔎 Case Notes

The Cartier Santos-Dumont Ref. WSSA0085 is one of the purest expressions of Cartier’s design language — a watch that prioritizes elegance, proportion, and restraint.

Originally inspired by aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Santos is one of the earliest purpose-built wristwatches in history. The modern Santos-Dumont line strips the design back even further, focusing on ultra-thin profile, clean Roman numeral dial, and refined case proportions.

This Large model maintains a strong wrist presence while remaining exceptionally slim and wearable. The silvered dial with black Roman numerals, blued hands, and classic square case with exposed screws create a look that is unmistakably Cartier — timeless, balanced, and instantly recognizable.

This example is presented in excellent pre-owned condition, showing very minimal signs of wear. The case, dial, and crystal present cleanly, and the strap remains in strong condition.

The watch includes its warranty card dated 2025 and comes with a non-Cartier presentation box.

🕰️ The Evidence

Reference: WSSA0085
Model: Cartier Santos-Dumont Large
Case: Stainless Steel
Case Size: Approx. 43.5 × 31.4 mm
Bezel: Polished Steel with Exposed Screws
Crystal: Sapphire
Dial: Silvered with Black Roman Numerals
Movement: Quartz
Strap: Black Leather Strap
Bracelet Fit: Adjustable leather strap
Water Resistance: 30 m
Year: 2025
Accessories: Warranty Card (Includes Non-Cartier Presentation Box)

Condition Notes: Excellent pre-owned condition with very light signs of wear. Case, dial, and crystal present cleanly; strap remains in strong condition.

✈️ The Santos Legacy

Few watches carry the historical weight of the Cartier Santos. First created in the early 1900s for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, it is widely regarded as one of the first modern wristwatches ever produced.

The Santos-Dumont line represents the most refined and dress-oriented interpretation of that legacy — emphasizing elegance and thinness over sport utility.

🌟 Collector Provenance

Examples with recent warranty cards, such as this 2025-dated piece, remain especially appealing to collectors seeking a near-current example.

The Santos-Dumont has developed a strong following among those who appreciate design-driven watchmaking and timeless aesthetics over complication.

🌟 Celebrity Provenance

The Santos has been worn by artists, designers, and cultural icons for over a century, cementing its place as one of the most recognizable and enduring watch designs in history.

🧾 From the Case File

“Recovered in excellent pre-owned condition with warranty card dated 2025. Includes non-Cartier presentation box. Minimal wear throughout.”

🗝️ BST Verdict

Case #316 delivers one of the most iconic designs in watchmaking in its purest modern form. With its excellent condition, recent 2025 card, and timeless proportions, the Santos-Dumont remains a cornerstone piece for any collection focused on design and heritage.

👉 Every case deserves a closer look.