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.

1978 Argentina Gráfica S.A.Carlos Vº Escolazo Catalan Pattern Guarro 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

Spain • Member since February 01, 1996

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