BV Factory Santos de Cartier WSSA0062 Replica Watch: In-Depth Review & Comparison

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Introduction​

The Santos de Cartier is one of the most iconic square-shaped watches in horology, originally created in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Over the years, Cartier has refined the design, and in recent years, the Santos de Cartier WSSA0062 (large model with date) has become a highly sought-after piece.
In the replica market, BV Factory (BVF) has emerged as a top-tier manufacturer, producing some of the most accurate Santos replicas available. Today, we’ll conduct a detailed review of the BV Factory Santos de Cartier WSSA0062, covering its case construction, dial accuracy, movement, bracelet, and overall wearability. We’ll also compare it to other top-tier replicas like GF Factory and KOR Factory versions.

1. Case & Construction: 95% Close to Genuine​

The BV Factory Santos WSSA0062 replicates the 39.8mm x 47.5mm case dimensions (large model) with impressive precision. Key highlights:

• Material: 316L stainless steel, mirroring the genuine watch’s weight and finish.
• Polishing & Brushing: The alternating polished bevels and brushed surfaces are flawlessly executed, matching the gen’s refined aesthetic.
• Screws on Bezel: The 8 exposed screws are perfectly aligned, with deep engravings and correct flat-head design (unlike some lower-tier reps that use incorrect screw shapes).
• Thickness: 9.08mm, nearly identical to the genuine model (9.1mm).

Comparison with GF & KOR Factories:

• GF Factory also does well but has slightly rougher screw finishing.
• KOR Factory has a thicker case (9.5mm), making it less accurate.

Verdict: BV Factory wins in case construction.

2. Dial Accuracy: Near-Perfect Replication​

The Gradient green dial with Silver Roman numerals is a signature Santos feature, and BV Factory nails it:

• Sunburst Finish: The dial has a subtle green sunburst effect, just like the gen.
• Roman Numerals: Crisp, 3D-printed with no bleeding or misalignment.
• Blue Sword Hands: The heat-treated blued steel hands are indistinguishable from genuine.
• Date Window: Perfectly centered at 3 o’clock, with correct font and magnification.

Comparison with GF & KOR Factories:

• GF Factory has a slightly brighter Gradient green dial, which can be a minor tell.
• KOR Factory sometimes has misaligned numerals.

Verdict: BV Factory’s dial is the closest to gen.

3. Movement: Miyota 9015 (Modified) vs. Genuine 1847 MC​

The genuine Santos WSSA0062 uses Cartier’s 1847 MC automatic movement. The BV Factory replica uses a modified Miyota 9015, which is a reliable workhorse:

• Key Features:
• Smooth seconds hand sweep (28,800 vph, same as gen).
• Quick-set date function (works correctly, unlike some low-tier reps).
• Noisy Rotor: A common issue with Miyota 9015, but BV Factory adds silicon dampeners to reduce noise (~40% quieter than standard 9015).

Comparison with GF & KOR Factories:

• GF Factory also uses 9015 but lacks noise reduction.
• KOR Factory uses a cheaper Seiko NH35, which is thicker and less accurate.

Verdict: BV’s modified 9015 is the best available in replicas.

4. Bracelet & QuickSwitch System: 1:1 Functionality​

One of the Santos’ most praised features is its QuickSwitch strap-changing system. The BV Factory replicates this perfectly:

• QuickSwitch Mechanism: Works exactly like gen—press the hidden button to release the bracelet.
• SmartLink Adjustment: No tools needed to resize the bracelet (just like gen).
• Bracelet Quality: Solid links, correct weight, and perfectly aligned screws.

Comparison with GF & KOR Factories:

• GF Factory has a slightly stiffer QuickSwitch mechanism.
• KOR Factory’s bracelet has looser tolerances, making it feel cheaper.

Verdict: BV Factory’s bracelet is the best in the rep market.

5. Lume & Water Resistance​

• Lume: BV Factory uses Swiss Super-LumiNova C3, matching the gen’s brightness and longevity.
• Water Resistance: Tested to 100m (better than most reps, which only do 30m).

Final Verdict: Is BV Factory the Best Santos Replica?

Pros:
✔ 1:1 case dimensions & finishing
✔ Perfect dial & hands replication
✔ Reliable modified Miyota 9015 movement
✔ Gen-like QuickSwitch & SmartLink system
✔ Superior bracelet quality

Cons:
✖ Miyota 9015 rotor noise (though improved)
✖ Higher price (~$350) compared to GF/KOR

Who Should Buy This?​

• If you want the closest Santos rep—BV Factory is the best.
• If budget is tight, GF Factory is a good alternative (~$280).
• Avoid KOR Factory—lower quality for a similar price.

Conclusion​

The BV Factory Santos de Cartier WSSA0062 is one of the best replicas available, with near-perfect accuracy in case, dial, bracelet, and functionality. While no rep is 100% identical to gen, BV Factory’s version is so close that only an expert with a loupe could tell.

Rating: 9.5/10 (Best Santos rep on the market)

Would you buy this rep, or would you save for the gen? Let’s discuss in the comments!