Gráfica S.A., Bs Aires

Published February 02, 2016 • Updated July 10, 2022

Gráfica S.A. of Buenos Aires has produced a number of brands using the Catalan pattern.

Carlos Vº Catalan pattern, 1980s

This is a copy of the standard Guarro Catalan pattern as published by Heraclio Fournier in Spain. The box and four of cups state : “Industria Argentina” but the ace of coins has no information. The logo (shown right) is also inspired by the tower motif (coat of arms of Vitoria) on Fournier's version►

“Carlos Vº” Catalan pattern by Gráfica S.A., Buenos Aires, 1980s

Above: “Carlos Vº” Catalan pattern by Gráfica S.A., Buenos Aires, 1980s. 40 cards in box, reverse red casino trellis. This brand now belongs to Naipes Feroleto / Los Remos S.R.L.

Other brands

The same designs were also used for other brands. 48-card decks also carried 2 jokers.

Naipes Escolazo made by Gráfica S.A., c.1978

Above: Naipes Escolazo, c.1978. 48 cards + 2 jokers in box. This brand now belongs to Justo Rodero.

Above: Lagos del Sur Souvenir, c.1980.

Advertising and Promotion

The designs were also used for sponsored advertising packs.

advertising deck by Gráfica S.A. for Imparciales cigarettes, 1980s

Above: advertising edition for Imparciales cigarettes (Massalin Particulares S.R.L, Philip Morris International’s affiliate in Argentina) printed by Gráfica S.A., Buenos Aires, 1980s. 48 cards + 2 jokers.

Over the years the quality of the cards moved towards the budget end of the market, often produced anonymously.

Above: budget grade advertising deck by Gráfica S.A. for Argentina Telecom Personal Light, 2004. 48 cards + 2 jokers in box. See also pack with plain backs►

La Española

Formerly produced by Vigor S.A.C. e I. this brand was produced for a short while by Gráfica S.A., Calle 58 Ex Lamadrid 1.400 Villa Maipú, San Martin before being acquired by Gráfica 2001.

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By Simon Wintle

Member since February 01, 1996

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I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.

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Gráfica S.A., Bs Aires

Carlos Vº Catalan pattern, 1980s

Other brands

Advertising and Promotion

La Española

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