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Model review / Automatic winding

Cartier Santos Titanium: the familiar square in a quieter metal

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The Santos Large WSSA0089 pairs titanium with a light dial and the automatic 1847 MC. We look at what the material changes and why square-watch width cannot be compared directly with round-watch diameter.

Published 11 November 20263 min read
Santos de Cartier Titanium Large
© Cartier · Image source

The essentials first

In one minute

Case39.8 mm wide
Calibre1847 MC
Power reserveNot stated on product page

Why it is interesting

Matte titanium suits the Santos geometry. Its appeal is the relationship between shape, surface and the interchangeable bracelet.

Things to consider

A width of 39.8 mm does not make this a small watch. Check current pricing and the exact supplied set for your chosen market.

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Cartier · Santos de Cartier Titanium Large

The model in detail

Meet the watch

The titanium Santos gives familiar geometry a quieter expression. Its matte grey case is less dependent on bright reflections, while the light dial retains Roman numerals and blue hands. The appeal of WSSA0089 lies in that balance between a recognizable shape and a restrained material.

This is a Large measuring 39.8 mm across and approximately 9.4 mm thick. A square fills the wrist differently from a circle of the same nominal size: corners and the transition to the bracelet also contribute to its footprint. If you usually choose watches by diameter alone, judge the Santos on your wrist.

Inside is the automatic 1847 MC. The everyday benefit of automatic winding is simple: sufficient wear allows wrist movement to replenish energy. Titanium does not change how the calibre works, and a large case does not imply a large reserve. The product listing used here does not state its duration.

Details and limitations

This version has a titanium bracelet, but its integrated clasp is steel. The listed set also includes a nubuck alligator-leather strap with a steel clasp. QuickSwitch lets you exchange the bracelet and strap, with the light dial remaining the visual focus in either configuration.

The water-resistance rating is 10 bar. Contact with water requires consideration of the fitted strap as well as the case: leather needs separate care. Cartier also advises checking the crown position and rinsing water-resistant watches with fresh water after sea or pool use.

This version makes particular sense if you like the Santos but want a less reflective execution. Titanium changes the surface character rather than adding a function. I would first compare its fit and legibility with a steel Large, then decide how much this particular shade of metal matters.

Sources

Cartier — Santos de Cartier: titanium edition365ayearof.cartier.comCartier — WSSA0089: technical descriptionwww.cartier.comCartier — your watch and waterint.cartier.com