A Cartier Santos costs from about $3,035 in our stock, with a typical (median) price of $7,260 across the 157 Santos watches we have. Steel models are the most affordable; two-tone, solid gold, skeleton and gem-set versions cost more, up to $83,600.
The figures on this page are live: they come from the Santos watches listed at Watchflix NYC when the page was built, in US dollars, with free insured shipping in the US.
Santos prices at a glance
| In stock | From | Typical price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Cartier Santos | 157 | $3,035 | $7,260 |
| New or unworn Santos | $4,050 | ||
| Pre-owned Santos | $3,035 | ||
| Santos de Cartier Large, steel (WSSA0018) | 10 | $5,235 | $5,940 |
| Santos de Cartier, WSSA0030 | 7 | $4,660 | $6,730 |
Every Santos we have is on the Cartier Santos page, with the reference, size and metal on each listing.
Why the Santos costs what it does
History. Louis Cartier designed the Santos in 1904 for the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to read the time without taking his hands off the controls. It is one of the first wristwatches designed for men, and the square case with visible screws is still instantly recognizable.
The current Santos de Cartier. The collection relaunched in 2018 with the QuickSwitch system, which lets you change the bracelet or strap without tools, and the SmartLink system for adjusting the bracelet length yourself.
Size and metal. The Santos comes in medium and large sizes, in steel, two-tone steel and gold, solid gold and with diamonds; skeleton and Dual Time versions sit higher.
Condition and set. As always, unworn watches with the box, papers and the spare strap cost more.
Santos, Tank or Ballon Bleu?
- Santos: square, sporty, with an integrated bracelet. Wears larger than its size suggests.
- Tank: rectangular and slim, the classic dress watch, in our stock from $2,200.
- Ballon Bleu: round, with the crown guarded by an arch and a blue cabochon, from $3,695.
Our comparison of the Santos and Tank explains which suits whom.
What to check before you buy a Santos
- The reference (WSSA…, W2SA…, W20…): it tells you the size, metal and generation.
- The QuickSwitch strap that came with it, and all bracelet links.
- Papers: the Cartier international guarantee card, dated and stamped.
- The case corners and screws: the brushed top of the case shows scratches; ask us for close-ups.
Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships and comes with our 24-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Cartier Santos?
In our stock, Cartier Santos prices start at $3,035, with a typical price of $7,260. Steel models cost the least; gold and gem-set models cost more.
Is the Cartier Santos a men's or women's watch?
Both. The large size suits most men's wrists; the medium size is popular with women and smaller wrists.
Does the Santos come with an extra strap?
Current Santos de Cartier watches usually come with a bracelet and an extra leather strap, swapped with the QuickSwitch system. Each listing states what is included.
Is the Santos waterproof?
The current steel Santos de Cartier is water resistant to 100 m, enough for swimming. Older and gold models may be rated lower; check the listing.
Can I see a Santos before buying?
Yes. Message us on WhatsApp for live photos of the exact watch, or arrange to see it at our Los Angeles store.
