Reference Guide
Sfwatchlover's in-depth review of the re-launched Pasha de Cartier Grille 41mm in Yellow Gold offers a valuable perspective on acquiring a significant Cartier timepiece. This article highlights the historical context and design nuances that make the Pasha Grille a distinctive choice for collectors. Sfwatchlover's personal journey and detailed observations provide an essential resource for those considering this iconic reference.
The Pasha de Cartier was first launched in 1985. The model name came from the Pasha Thami El Glaoui of Marrakech, a region in Morocco. Pasha is the title for a high level lord, outranked only by a sultan. The Pasha of Marrakech (from 1912 to 1956) was very rich and a royal customer of Cartier.
Cartier commissioned Mr. Gerald Genta in 1982 to design various models for Pasha. The goal was to make a sports watch and Mr. Genta was the best designer for the task (you know why). The designs of some complicated Pasha were sold at Sotheby's auction early this year. Pasha is among the iconic Genta designs, together with the Royal Oak, Nautilus and Ingenieur. We may see some pictures of the initial models below.
The first Pasha models were in 38mm cases, in precious metals first, then stainless steel. One of the calibers, 191, was based on Girard-Perregaux caliber 3100. It is interesting that two types of grids were made. One type is flat while the other type has a curved shape. More Pasha models were released including chronograph, GMT, moon-phase, and perpectual calendar. There were models with difference case sizes like 35mm and 42mm.
Inside the Pasha grille is the caliber 1847 MC, where MC stands for “Manufacture Cartier”. This is a new movement introduced in 2015 with the Cartier Clé collection. 1847 MC powers the latest Santos collection re-designed in 2018 too. Measuring only 3.8 mm thick, it is suitable for thin and elegant watches. The escape mechanism has been designed with non-magnetic components. The power reserve is good for 42 hours, close to 2 full days. The 1847 MC is more plainly finished than Cartier's other manufacture movements. Nothing wrong with that, as it is geared toward stability and performance. Notice that the balance wheel is mounted tightly on a bridge at two points. The rotor incorporates a durable lever system. 100 meters watch resistance.
The timing accuracy of my Pasha was +1.0 secs per day as measured on a time-grapher. Timing error measurements (7/29/2022) were listed below:
Dial up: 0
Dial down: +3
Crown up: +3
Crown down: -1
12 up: 0
12 down: +1
Averaged error: +1.0 secs/day
What an incredible performance! May I say that the 1847 MC is quite like the movements from Rolex and Tudor? Plain looking yet reliable and getting the job done.
There are so many iconic watch models produced by Cartier in more than a century of time-span. It is a daunting task for any watch enthusiast to pick her/his first Cartier watch. But it will be a very enjoyable journey for sure. I’m feeling so awesome to bring home the Pasha with a grille as my first Cartier timepiece. I love it very much, as it just ticks so many boxes when choosing a watch to keep for the long term.
First, the quirky, daring and iconic design from Gerald Genta! Mr. Genta recalled that the inspiration for the AP Royal Oak was from memory of diver being fitted with a helmet on Geneva’s Bond de la Machine. The same images might provide the idea for the protective grille for Pasha (see picture below). Making it a removable grid was such a genius idea! The watch turns into a more stately dress watch without the grille. Such a versatile piece!
The name and story behind the Pasha collection are quite fascinating too. It is a catchy name for sure. We watch lovers are suckers for stories.
The new Pasha is powered by an in-house movement with impressive timing accuracy. There are many innovations devoted to the new model, including the new construction for the grille and the easy strap change mechanism. It is a very well built watch with the latest technology know-how.
The new Pasha grille will be relatively rare due to the “One Shot” production. The production is driven by client orders and will last only for a short period of time.
Lastly, the Pasha grille is a fun watch to own! Think about the removable grid, the protective crown cap and the interexchange strap! Not to mention the secret location for engraving that Cartier will do for free.
and thank you for taking the time to share this with us. I completely agree with you about so many iconic watch models being produced by Cartier and the Pasha design is unique. Best regards Captain
It was my great pleasure to share my experience and joys in getting this piece. This forum is very useful for me to do research before buying decisions. I was able to find so many interesting discussions on Pasha models including pictures from posts as far as 10 years ago. I was able to see and learn many models. So I am happy to be able to contribute a little bit here with this review. Thanks 😊
A Pasha is Still on my list . Need to do some research which is best to add at some point Thanks again for this post
This is what we should see more often, here at the Cartier forum. Congratulations on your new Pasha Grille. I tried the watch at W&W and I find the new model quite an improvement, especially, the larger crown that's easier to wind, and the way the grille is designed, and how it fits within the bezel. For collectors that have last year's model, so the one without the grille, it is possible to order a grille for your watch, at the Cartier Boutiques. GEO
I just took the liberty to correct the name of Pasha's (the man) nation in your writeup, out of clarity -- the rest is untouched. Thanks for sharing!
The grille completes it IMO. Here's my 38mm in SS.
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