Cartier is not really a brand many people think of when they hear the word « affordable ». However, older models can sometimes be found for surprisingly low prices. A good example of this is the Pasha C GMT that Antiquorum is offering as lot 301 for their October 8th auction in New York City. They have set the estimate at US$ 1.000,-/ US$ 2.000,-.
When introduced the Pasha C was the entry-level for the Pasha-collection. Don’t take that « entry-level » too literally because Cartier didn’t cut many corners when making it. The corner that they did cut is one you might actually be happy about. Instead of using Girard-Perregaux or Frederic Piguet movements, the Pasha C collection is powered by ETA-movements. Although this might disappoint hard-core Haute Horlogerie connoisseurs, it does provide for far less expensive maintenance while at the same time still offer a very high degree of reliability and precision.
Today the Pasha C will probably be referred to as uni-sex, with a diameter of 36mm. However with a relatively large dial the watch most certainly doesn’t wear small. This GMT version has a silver-colored dial with a globe raster printed on top. This, together with the GMT-bezel, amplifies the cosmopolitan purpose of this watch. A GMT-hand works together with the bezel to display the home time.
The Pasha C has the same characteristic « Vendome » lugs, as well as the canteen crown. With the regular Pasha’s this crown was set with a synthetic sapphire cabochon, but with the Pasha C it is all steel. It gives the watch a slightly more sportive look. The same can be said of the bracelet. The links are pretty straight forward in design, especially for a Cartier of that era, but do make the watch look more robust.
Given its age the Pasha C Antiquorum offers for auction seems to be in almost impeccable condition. The dial is clean, and even the hands don’t show any sign of tarnishing or discoloration. The bezel is crisp and clean, as is the rest of the case. All together is the Pasha C GMT a formidable travel companion. Its size its discreet, its complications are practical and its design timeless and typical Cartier. On top of that is the watch now also quite affordable!
For more information about the upcoming Antiquorum auction, click here