Pasha de Cartier Watches

Designed in 1985 with the collaboration of Gérald Genta, the Pasha de Cartier marked an important chapter in the brand’s history as one of its first watches conceived for sport — masculine, water-resistant, yet unmistakably infused with Cartier’s aesthetic codes. Put on hold during the 2010s, the collection was relaunched in 2020 in a contemporary reinterpretation now available in three sizes (30, 35, and 41 mm), with a signature instantly recognizable to enthusiasts: a screw-down crown attached by a small chain, a “square within a circle” dial design, Arabic numerals, and the QuickSwitch system for tool-free strap changes. Here is how to navigate the collection.

How to choose your Cartier Pasha watch

The first important factor when choosing a Pasha watch is the case size. The 30 mm is designed for slim wrists (< 15 cm) and dressier wear: it is the format closest to the spirit of a jewelry watch. The 35 mm is the pivotal size, unisex, and suited to wrists between 15 and 17 cm — Cartier explicitly positions it as a gender-neutral model. The 41 mm revives the original sporty spirit and is best suited to wrists of 17 cm and above; it is also the only version to feature a date display at 4:30.

The movement depends on the diameter. The 30 mm uses a “high-autonomy” quartz movement, designed for infrequent wear without sacrificing precision. The 35 and 41 mm models house the Cartier manufacture automatic caliber 1847 MC, offering around 40 hours of power reserve and visible through a sapphire caseback. A skeleton version (manual-winding caliber 9624 MC) is available in 41 mm for enthusiasts of exceptional watchmaking.

Next comes the choice of metal and bracelet. The steel model remains the most versatile and accessible option. Solid 18-carat yellow gold and rose gold versions are available in 35 and 41 mm, generally paired with leather straps. The 30 mm also serves as the base for diamond-set variations, in either steel or rose gold. The QuickSwitch system allows the wearer to alternate between a metal bracelet and an alligator leather strap in seconds, making it a dual-purpose watch (sporty or dressy) without requiring a boutique visit.

Water resistance is the Pasha’s defining advantage within the Cartier range: 100 meters (10 bar) on the 41 mm model, compared with 30 meters on most other Cartier collections. This allows for swimming and surface water activities, though not diving. The 30 and 35 mm models remain rated at 30 meters.

Finally, the visual signature. The screw-down crown attached by a small chain — a blue spinel cabochon held by a fine metal chain — is the immediately identifiable hallmark of the watch. Inside the crown cover, there is a space for engraving initials: a detail worth considering if purchasing the watch as a meaningful gift.

Which watch for which profile?

Slim wrist (< 15 cm), dressy use → Pasha 30 mm in steel or rose gold, quartz movement.
Looking for a unisex watch → Pasha 35 mm steel automatic.
Larger wrist (> 17 cm), sport/everyday use → Pasha 41 mm steel automatic, 100 m water resistance.
Planning to swim regularly → only the Pasha 41 mm (10 bar).
Looking for a jewelry watch → 30 mm diamond-set version, in rose gold or steel.

FAQ

What is the difference between the Pasha and the Santos de Cartier?

The Santos features a square case with exposed screws and an integrated link bracelet, inherited from the 1904 design. The Pasha has a round case, a distinctive screw-down crown attached by a chain, and the QuickSwitch strap-change system. The Pasha also offers greater water resistance in its 41 mm version (100 m), with a sportier character than the more classic Santos watch.

Does the Pasha exist with an automatic movement?

Yes. The 35 and 41 mm models are automatic watches equipped with the Cartier manufacture caliber 1847 MC, offering approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The 30 mm, however, is exclusively available with a high-autonomy quartz movement in order to preserve a slimmer case profile. A manual-winding skeleton version (9624 MC) is also available in 41 mm.

Can you wear a Pasha in the pool or at the beach?

For the 41 mm model only, yes: its 100-meter (10 bar) water resistance allows for swimming, showering, and surface water activities, though not diving. The 30 and 35 mm versions are limited to 30 meters (3 bar) — suitable only for splashes and rain. Rinse the watch with fresh water after any contact with salt or chlorine.

What budget should you expect for a new Pasha?

Retail prices start at around €6,500 for a 35 mm steel automatic model and €7,500 for a 41 mm steel automatic. Expect to pay between €11,000 and €13,000 for a 30 mm steel diamond-set version, and €25,000 to €30,000 for solid rose gold or yellow gold models. The 41 mm skeleton version exceeds €60,000.

What is the purpose of the QuickSwitch system and the compartment beneath the crown cover?

QuickSwitch allows the bracelet or strap (leather or metal) to be changed within seconds using a small lever, without tools or a boutique visit. Most Pasha models are delivered with two interchangeable straps. Beneath the crown cover, Cartier offers personalized engraving (initials, date) — a service available at the time of purchase.

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