Cartier Santos de Cartier (Customized Aftermarket Diamond Set), Ref. WSSA0018 based
Luxury Dress Watch / Tool Watch (Customized Haute Joaillerie Style) · Cartier (Richemont Group). Tier: Heritage Luxury / High-End Jewelry-focused watchmaking.
Period: Neo-Vintage / Modern Luxury (2018-Present). Classic Art Deco influence within a modern high-glamour customization context.
Type
Luxury Dress Watch / Tool Watch (Customized Haute Joaillerie Style)
Brand
Cartier (Richemont Group). Tier: Heritage Luxury / High-End Jewelry-focused watchmaking.
Movement
Automatic, likely In-house Caliber 1847 MC. 28,800 vph, approx. 42-hour power reserve.
Dimensions
Large Model: 39.8mm width, 47.5mm lug-to-lug, 9.38mm thickness, 21mm lug width.
Description
An heavily modified Cartier Santos 'Large' that transforms a historic tool watch into a high-octane piece of jewelry. This watch features the classic Santos silhouette, originally designed for Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904, but completely iced out with diamonds across the case, bezel, and dial. The addition of rainbow-colored hour markers provides a vibrant, contemporary contrast to the monochromatic shine of the diamonds and white leather strap.
Key Features
Signature square case with rounded corners, visible crown guard, QuickSwitch strap system, and the distinctive aftermarket 'Rainbow' diamond-flooded pavé dial.
Dial Description
Full diamond pavé aftermarket dial featuring custom multi-colored rainbow indices (likely sapphire or garnet mix), sword-shaped hands, and a date window at 6 o'clock.
Case Material
Stainless steel base metal, aftermarket set with brilliant-cut diamonds. Polished and pavé diamond-set finish.
Crystal Type
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, flat with bevelled edges.
Bezel Details
Fixed square bezel with rounded corners, aftermarket pavé diamond setting over the traditional 8-screw Cartier design.
Crown & Pushers
Seven-sided heptagonal crown set with a synthetic blue or reddish faceted spinel/gemstone, protected by integrated crown guards.
Bracelet or Strap
White alligator or crocodile leather strap with a QuickSwitch interchangeability system and a steel deployant buckle.
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel screw-down caseback with Cartier engravings, water resistance ratings, and serial numbers.
Movement Type
Automatic, likely In-house Caliber 1847 MC. 28,800 vph, approx. 42-hour power reserve.
Water Resistance
Original rating 100m (10 bar). Recommended: Treat as splash-resistant only due to potential modifications to the case integrity during diamond setting.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Customization performed by an independent third-party jeweler (aftermarket).
Age Estimate
Modern generation (2018–2024), likely manufactured within the last 5 years based on the dial layout and case shape.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of classical horology and modern luxury 'flex' culture. While respected by purists in its original form, this diamond version symbolizes status, success, and high-fashion visibility.
Condition Notes
Visually Good. Case settings look intact, though aftermarket stone settings can vary in quality. The strap appears clean and the crystal shows no major chips. Overall: Very Good (Customized).
Value Estimate
Secondary Market: $15,000–$25,000 USD (Value varies wildly based on diamond quality/carat weight and if original parts are included). Note: Aftermarket modifications usually void Cartier factory warranties.
Care & Maintenance
Service every 5-8 years. Ensure stones are checked for tightness regularly. Avoid water immersion as aftermarket setting can compromise original gaskets. Clean with a soft brush and mild soap.
Similar Watches
Rolex Datejust (Wimbledon or Diamond set), Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (Iced Out), Hublot Big Bang One Click.
Interesting Facts
The Santos is widely considered the first purpose-built pilot's watch and the first men's wristwatch. In recent years, it has become one of the most popular platforms for 'iced out' diamond customization in hip-hop and fashion culture.