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Archive for April, 2011

The Pasha is not a new design for Cartier Watches, but this new interpretation sure is.  The movement stands out in the skeltonized design.  Calibre 9457 MC has been specially designed for the flying tourbillion escapement, a hand-wound movement that seems similar to the Rotonde de Cartier.  The bridges are in the form of three large Arabic numerals that are blackened out and engraved for better contrast and in keeping with the iconic Pasha design elements.  This case is 42mm in diameter and has a Geneva Seal movement.  Empty space contrasts with the textures and depth created by the circular-grained wheels, the satin brushed sides and the beveled bridges.

The 3, 9 and 12 o’clock positions are engraved and stylized framing the flying tourbillon’s carriage at the 6 o’clock position.  Movement is driven by a skeletonized barrel with a visible mainspring.  This extraordinary piece is made in a limited edition of 100 pieces, each piece is numbered.

The case is made from 18 carat white gold as is the crown that fluted in design and set with a blue sapphire cabochon that beautifully matches the blue hands on the dial with a sapphire crystal.  It is water-resistant to 30 meters, 100 feet or 3 bar.  The hour and minute hands are diamond-shaped and done in blue steel making it easy to read the time as the dial is mostly empty space.  It comes on an alligator skin strap with a double adjusting folding 18 carat white gold clasp for security.  The case back in done in an exhibition styling that allows one to see completely through the case to appreciate the incredible mechanical workings.

There are 19 jewels and 175 parts to this watch and it runs at 21,600 vibrations per hour.  The power reserve is 50 hours.  The center of the watch has a contrasting square chapter ring with demarcations for the minutes and the Cartier logo is displayed at 12 o’clock.  This ring is integral to the movement as it is the carriage of the flying tourbillion escapement that has traditionally been a stylized ‘C”.  The empty space of the dial give the watch both a minimalistic and complex look at the same time.  It is surprisingly easy to read, unlike most skeletonized dials that can look like a hot mess.

This special watch will be for a lucky few people who might be investors of collectors of Cartier Watches.  The price tag will be lofty but then look at what you are getting, this timepiece is truly a work of art.