Cartier Santos WSSA0039 Black Dial Rubber Strap
Original price was: $820.00.$720.00Current price is: $720.00.
If you want the Santos in its sharpest modern form, this is the one to look at closely. The black ADLC case, black dial with crisp white Roman numerals, and matching rubber strap give the WSSA0039 a cleaner, more architectural presence than the standard steel version. This BVF execution also matters because the case stays slim with an automatic movement, while the crown and hand set keep the dark monochrome look coherent. The detailed description below is worth reading for how those elements change the watch on the wrist.
The black Santos look works because the contrast is disciplined
The first thing that decides this watch is the dial-to-case balance. Here, the square Santos profile is rendered in matte black ADLC over steel, then paired with a black dial framed by large white Roman numerals. That contrast gives the watch its character: bold enough to read instantly, but without the brighter jewelry effect of the classic steel Santos. The bezel screws remain visible, the case lines stay crisp, and the whole watch keeps the geometric structure that makes the Santos such a strong design in the first place.
At 39.8mm, this is the large Santos format, so it has the full presence most collectors want from this reference. The black treatment changes the personality more than the size does. Compared with the white-dial steel alternative, this version feels more contemporary, more understated in color, and more intentional if you prefer a watch that reads as design first and shine second.
Why this WSSA0039 stands apart from the steel Santos
The appeal of the WSSA0039 is not simply that it is black. It is that nearly every visible element has been coordinated around that darker theme. The case is finished in black ADLC, the dial is black, the crown is black, and the strap keeps the same low-gloss visual flow. Against that, the white Roman numerals and minute track do the heavy lifting for legibility. The date at 4:30 is neatly integrated and keeps the dial symmetrical from top to bottom.
That makes this version an easy choice for someone who already appreciates the Santos shape but does not want the brighter, more traditional steel look. It has the same instantly recognizable square case and exposed screws, but the mood is very different. On the wrist, it feels cleaner and more directional, especially with casual tailoring, knitwear, dark denim, or monochrome wardrobes.
BVF’s advantage here is the execution of a difficult finish
Black-coated Santos models are less forgiving than plain steel versions. If the brushing, coating tone, or detail matching is off, the whole watch can look inconsistent. That is why the BVF version is worth attention on this specific reference. The case uses black ADLC-coated 316L steel, and the slim automatic build helps preserve the Santos’ flatter profile rather than making the watch look bulky at the wrist.
The practical benefit is not abstract. On a square watch with broad bezel surfaces, coating quality and surface uniformity are always visible. This version is compelling because the matte black case, black faceted crown, and dark overall palette stay visually coherent instead of mixing mismatched tones. For a buyer choosing this reference specifically for its stealth character, that execution matters far more than marketing language.
The rubber strap changes the watch more than many buyers expect
This model comes on a black rubber strap with the Santos screw motif, and that choice gives the watch a noticeably sportier profile than a bracelet would. The strap visually extends the dark case, so the watch reads as one continuous object rather than a black head attached to a separate bracelet. It also helps the square case feel more relaxed and easier to style day to day.
The clasp shown is a deployant style, which suits the more structured feel of the Santos rather than reducing it to a simple sports watch. The QuickSwitch-compatible setup is another useful detail for anyone who likes to rotate straps without tools. Even if you plan to keep it on rubber, that compatibility is part of what makes the modern Santos such an adaptable design.
A strong option for buyers who want the Santos shape without the usual shine
For many experienced buyers, the decision comes down to whether they want the iconic Santos design in its classic form or its most modern expression. This WSSA0039 leans decisively toward the latter. The black ADLC case, black dial, integrated date at 4:30, and matching rubber strap give it a compact, purposeful look that feels very different from the more decorative steel model.
If your priority is the familiar Santos architecture with less brightness and a more contemporary edge, this is the version that earns attention. The proportions remain recognizably Santos, but the darker surfaces and rubber strap make it feel more technical, more discreet, and easier to wear as an everyday statement piece rather than a dress-leaning icon.
Watch specification
Configuration summary for this watch
| Brand | Cartier |
|---|---|
| Movement | Miyota 9015 automatic |
| Case Material | Black ADLC-coated 316L steel |
| Bezel | Black ADLC bezel with exposed screws |
| Bracelet | Black rubber strap with deployant clasp |
Buyer Q&A
Questions about this Cartier watch
What gives this Santos its darker look compared with the standard version?
This WSSA0039 uses a black ADLC-coated case and bezel, a black dial, a black crown, and a black rubber strap. Together they create a much more monochrome look than the steel Santos models.
Does this watch have a date display?
Yes. The date window is positioned at 4:30, which keeps the dial balanced within the square Santos layout.
What strap and clasp style does it come with?
It comes on a black rubber strap with the Santos screw motif and a deployant clasp.
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