A fake Cartier Santos medium is a replica of the 35.1mm by 41.9mm stainless steel Cartier Santos watch. It copies the square case, exposed screws, and Roman numeral dial. Quality ranges from cheap quartz models to high-end replicas with automatic movements.

What defines the Cartier Santos Medium?

The Cartier Santos medium (reference WSSA0029) measures 35.1mm across and 41.9mm from lug to lug. It is 8.83mm thick. The watch uses the 1847 MC automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The steel bracelet has Cartier's SmartLink system for tool-free sizing.

What are the common types of fake Cartier Santos medium?

Fake Cartier Santos medium watches fall into three groups: quartz, mid-tier automatic, and high-end replica.

  • Quartz fakes: Cost $50 to $150. Many have wrong case dimensions, printed dials, and folded link bracelets. The seconds hand ticks instead of sweeps.
  • Mid-tier automatics: Cost $200 to $400. They use Miyota or Seagull movements. The case is closer to correct, but the date font and screw alignment may be off.
  • High-end replicas: Cost $500 to $800. They use clone 1847 MC movements, real sapphire crystal, and solid link bracelets. Dimensions match the original within 0.1mm.

How to spot a fake Cartier Santos medium?

Check these details before you buy.

  • Case screws: The Santos has eight exposed screws on the bezel. They should be flat-head and aligned. Fake screws sit above the bezel or use Philips heads.
  • Dial: Roman numerals must be crisp and raised. The "Cartier" logo should use the correct font. "Swiss Made" sits at 6 o'clock.
  • Hands: Blued steel sword hands. They should be polished and match the original shape.
  • Crown: The crown has a blue spinel cabochon. Fakes may use glass or plastic that looks flat.
  • Date window: The date sits at 3 o'clock. The window should have a frame or a clean cut. The date font should match Cartier's.
  • Bracelet: Links should be solid, not folded. The SmartLink system has a quick-release button on the first link.
  • Movement: Look through the case back. The 1847 MC has 23 jewels and a specific rotor engraving. Fakes may show a Miyota or ETA clone.
  • Case back: Engravings should be deep and sharp. The serial number and reference should match the model.

What should you check before buying a fake Cartier Santos medium?

  • Ask for real photos, not stock images.
  • Check seller reviews and return policy.
  • Confirm dimensions: 35.1mm x 41.9mm x 8.83mm.
  • Ask for weight: a real steel medium is about 100g with bracelet.
  • Ask for movement type and power reserve.

How much does a fake Cartier Santos medium cost?

Expect to pay $50 to $150 for quartz, $200 to $400 for mid-tier, and $500 to $800 for high-end. Prices vary by seller and included box.

Frequently asked questions

Are fake Cartier Santos medium watches legal?

Laws vary by country. In the US, selling counterfeits is illegal. Buying for personal use is a gray area. Many sellers operate outside the law.

Do fake Cartier Santos medium watches use real sapphire crystal?

Only high-end replicas use real sapphire. Cheap fakes use mineral glass or acrylic.

Can a jeweler tell a fake Cartier Santos medium?

Yes. A jeweler can check the movement, engravings, weight, and bracelet construction. The 1847 MC movement has finishing that clones do not match.

What is the best movement for a fake Cartier Santos medium?

A clone 1847 MC or an ETA 2892. These movements have a smooth sweep and a 40-hour plus power reserve.

Does the fake Cartier Santos medium come with a box and papers?

Some sellers include a box and papers. They are not authentic. The papers have wrong fonts or serial numbers.