This replica Santos SSA0017 brings the Santos de Cartier Chronograph into the lineup with the WSSA0017 reference. Adding a chronograph complication transforms the square dial layout into a dual-register arrangement with subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock. The steel case maintains the signature exposed bezel screws, but pushers flanking the crown at 2 and 4 o’clock mark this immediately as a timing instrument rather than a time-only Santos.

Case & Movement Specs

• Case shape: square with rounded corners
• Case material: stainless steel
• Dial: silver with two chronograph subdials
• Crystal: sapphire
• Crown: octagonal with blue synthetic spinel cabochon
• Pushers: two chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock
• Bezel: steel with exposed screws
• Bracelet: steel with deployant clasp
• Movement: automatic chronograph
• Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph, date

The dual-register layout uses a running seconds subdial and a 30-minute chronograph counter. A date window at 6 o’clock rounds out the complications without crowding the face.

Caliber Breakdown

Automatic chronograph movements require additional components for the start-stop-reset mechanism, which typically adds thickness compared to time-only versions. The WSSA0017 accounts for this with slightly more case depth while maintaining the Santos profile from the front. The silver dial uses a snailed finish on the subdials to differentiate them from the main dial surface. Blued steel hands on both the chronograph seconds and subdial counters match the main hands, keeping the color scheme unified. You can compare the chronograph layout against the simpler Ballon Bleu W6920097 for a time-only alternative. The broader Santos collection includes medium, large, and XL sizes in non-chronograph configurations for those who prefer a cleaner dial.

How It Compares

Chronograph versions of iconic designs invite debate about whether the added complication enhances or clutters the original layout. On the Santos, the square case provides enough real estate for two subdials without making the face look cramped. The pushers integrate cleanly into the case profile and sit flush when not in use, preserving the geometric lines. On the wrist, the chronograph Santos wears marginally thicker than a standard Santos but maintains the same square footprint and exposed-screw aesthetic. For buyers who want Santos design language with timing functionality, the WSSA0017 is the current-production answer. This replica Santos SSA0017 delivers that chronograph capability within the most recognizable square case in the lineup.

Chronograph Specifications: Santos WSSA0017

• Reference: WSSA0017
• Case Dimensions: 43.3mm x 43.3mm x 12.1mm (Chronograph format)
• Case Material: 904L Stainless Steel
• Bezel: Polished steel with 8 signature screws
• Dial: Silver with dual chronograph subdials
• Subdials: Running seconds (9), 30-minute counter (3)
• Movement: Asian 7750 Automatic Chronograph (28,800 vph)
• Pushers: Round pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock
• Crystal: Sapphire with AR coating
• Bracelet: 904L steel with deployment clasp
• Water Resistance: 100 meters
• Factory: BV Factory

7750-Based Chronograph Movement: The Industry Workhorse

The Santos Chronograph uses an Asian 7750-clone movement — derived from Valjoux 7750, the chronograph caliber powering watches from $500 to $15,000 retail. The 7750 architecture earned “workhorse” status because it works: reliable cam-switching chronograph mechanism, easy serviceability, global parts availability.

Key specifications: 28,800 vph beat rate for smooth sweep, 48-hour power reserve when chronograph inactive, column-wheel start-stop-reset for precise function. The chronograph seconds hand snaps back to 12 on reset — satisfying mechanical confirmation that everything functions correctly.

Chronograph on Square Case: Design Challenge Solved

Chronographs traditionally use round cases — dial symmetry accommodates circular subdials naturally. Square cases create geometric tension between angular boundaries and circular registers. Cartier’s solution: position subdials at 3 and 9 (horizontal axis), use smaller register diameter, frame registers with snailed finishing that reads as decorative rather than intrusive.

The result works better than most square chronographs. The Santos Chronograph reads as complete design rather than complication grafted onto reluctant canvas. BV Factory maintains exact subdial positioning, sizing, and finishing — the proportional relationships that make this layout succeed.

Price Analysis: Santos Chronograph

Genuine Cartier Santos Chronograph WSSA0017: $13,500 MSRP
BV Factory Superclone: $789

Cartier charges $5,600 premium over time-only Santos for chronograph complication — reflecting additional movement complexity and case engineering. BV Factory pricing reflects the more expensive 7750-type movement over standard Miyota. Both achieve identical aesthetics and timing functionality. The authentic offers Cartier in-house caliber and service network; ours offers immediate Santos chronograph ownership.

Order your Santos Chronograph WSSA0017 today. Full QC photography before shipping — verify chronograph function before dispatch.

Santos Complications

For time-only Santos, see the classic WSSA0010. Explore rubber strap options for sport wear. Browse the Santos collection.