Every week, we uncover a new object of desire from the vast and magical world of fine watches and jewellery. This week, we look at the cult-favourite Pasha de Cartier, the ultimate combination of horology and high jewellery in a new luxurious outfit.
It’s no wonder that the Pasha de Cartier remains one of the watch world’s top collectible pieces since coming to fruition in 1985. Named after the Pasha El Glaoui of Marrakesh — whose passion for fine watchmaking made him a loyal customer of Louis Cartier’s — the watch’s extroverted design celebrates hedonism without excess in a masterful manner.
In its DNA, the Pasha is sporty, and despite this iteration’s 41mm size, retains the sense of elegance you wouldn’t normally find in a big watch. From its chained crown to chain link with a secret compartment for your initials, it is an icon in every way. It also features Cartier’s famed QuickSwitch system, which allows you to switch straps with just the push of a button; but for this model, there’s really only one strap (or chain) that should accompany this fancy face.
The measured approach to luxury stops with this Pasha de Cartier Skeleton, which sees the iconic watch completely iced out in a gemstones — 341 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.67 carat) making the face of the panther, two marquise-cut emeralds (0.13 carat) to make its alluring eyes, and a black onyx for the nose, to be exact.
As if its not enough, this bedazzling affair continues with a case and bracelet set presenting 388 brilliant-cut diamonds (11.46 carats) and a bezel set with 42 brilliant-cut diamonds (2.53 carats).
Coupled with its OG-status-feats that include the 100m water resistance and the in-house 1847 MC automatic calibre, this skeleton complication makes for a prized possession that can only be fully appreciated as an heirloom, passed on from generation to generation. After all its larger-than-life spirit is timeless, and the love for Pasha de Cartier continues to outlast the Sony Discman and the radio pager today.
Once you’re done with this story, click here to catch up with our August 2022 issue.
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