I got this one, full set, for my wife two years ago. It is a 38mm from 1997-98. Today this model is offered in 36 and 40.
I gambled a bit as her taste is somewhat difficult to foresee. But as I found it quite quirky-nice myself I reckoned I could use it if she did not.

She does... unfortunately or fortunately depending on... She has a nice vintage Datejust and an Omega 2252.50.00 (black auto 36mm "2254") but this Cartier Pasha is her favourite.

Here in Sweden Cartier has gained popularity in the WIS world. Is there something similar going on in the rest of the watch world?

 

Personally, I really like this model and reference with the bracelet. It is also the older version with tritium which adds a nice touch the only thing I don’t like is the date, it would have been a much cleaner dial without it..

Cartier in general is getting a lot of popularity with many vintage models at the moment. The one you bought for your wife is still a bit under the radar (I’ve seen some being sold very quickly but still underpriced in my opinion), but I wouldn’t be surprised if it gained a lot of popularity in the next months/years.

 

I do need to take a closer look at Cartier. But likely cannot afford any of their watches. Old binoculars from a garage sale.

 

Two years waiting for this weird thing. still waiting…

 

The Santos (in its various permutations) remains very popular, but I can't remember the last time I saw a pre-owned example that wasn't scratched all to hell, leading me to believe they use relatively softer metals (at least on the bezel) than most brands. If I was shopping for a Cartier, I'd lean towards a Ronde or a Ballon Bleu.

 

I am a big fan myself. My grail right now is a london tank from the 60s in "mens" size. I am also a fan of the Santos, though, I think the first iteration of it was the best. I call it a baby royal oak. Here is my french tank and santos carree.

 

I totally agree on the date. Also on the "under the radar" - and I did take advantage of "still underpriced" when I bought it locally at auction for what I consider a really low sum (even for these). As stated elswhere here on OF I only buy watches I like (and in this case what I thought my wife would like) - investment thoughts has never been a trigger for me. Having this modus operandi - worst case is that you have bought a watch that you like...

The buy included:









There is actally a small magnifying glass inserted in the dial for the date. edit - another thing that is difficult to capture in photo is that the hands are blued.

 

I was talking to Toby Sutton of Watches of Knightsbridge 18 months ago, and even then he said that Cartier prices were going mental. I managed to snag this before they moved out of reach....

 

Love that Carrée, sharp and scratched, as they should be

Mine is still with Cartier for service, I only have an older picture.. do you have all the papers as well?

 

I used to own a Tank Basculante before it became popular... Lovely watch and beautifully made.

I bought this Santos Dumont with black lacquered case earlier this year:

 

My Cartier and its JLC distant cousin:

 

I had purchased mine watch only. They are difficult to find unpolished especially with the bracelet as well but I think its worth it. Once this model is polished and loses its original finishing the true character of the watch is lost. It's also much more difficult to have the bracelet and case refinished to original factory specs than something like a vintage sub.