Pasha de Cartier: The return of a cult classic

The new Pasha de Cartier sees a close resemblance to the iconic 1985 original with a few significant updates.

There are two sizes – 35mm for ladies and 41mm for men – and a myriad variations spanning a core collection of three-hand watches to high jewellery and skeletonised models. Designed by Gerald Genta, the cult classic was created from a 1930s water-resistant watch created by Louis Cartier to accompany the Pasha of Marrakesh on his daily swims.

The model featured what would be its famous hallmarks: a non-conformist round case with a graphic signature square rail track in the dial’s centre, Arabic numerals, Vendome-style bars with Clous de Paris at the ends (patented by Louis Cartier in 1934), and screw-down cover over a crown fitted with a blue spinel or sapphire.

The dial flaunts a stamped guilloche motif that glimmers subtly in the light and an ever-so-slight dégradé effect on its edges. Visible via a transparent caseback is the automatic calibre 1847 MC designed in the Cartier manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Extras include a space under the crown cover that can be engraved with initials, the Cartier-developed QuickSwitch system that allows the wearer to swop straps with a single push-button, and the SmartLink system for bracelet length adjustment.

A new service that Cartier recently launched for Pasha watch owners is complimentary servicing and personalisation for the collection’s models. In-house master watchmakers will do a diagnosis on the timepiece, followed by servicing according to the watch’s requirements. Additionally, Pasha owners can choose to engrave their watches in two places – the back of the case or under the crown cover, a signature of the collection’s timepieces. Both services are available regardless of the model and when it was purchased.

(All images: Cartier)