Introduction
Originally debuting in 1929, the Cartier Tank Obus is known for its departure from the Tank's aesthetic in the form of its unusual shape and styling. Instead of featuring the same rectangular profile that the Tank is famed for, the Obus is a square timepiece with distinctive bullet-shaped lugs ("Obus" means "shell" in French) that contrast the sharp corners right next to them. Belonging to Cartier's esteemed high-horology program that began in 1998 and ran until 2008, the Collection Privée Cartier Paris (CPCP), the Tank Obus CPCP ref. 2380E that we have here features a wonderfully finished movement, an exquisitely decorated dial, and belongs to a production run of around 100-150 watches making it both unique in its styling and design, and rare in absolute terms - the perfect combination for any collector, be it a Cartier devotee or watchmaking enthusiast alike.
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Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Previous Service Invoice
Est. value range
$5,000 – $7,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
34mm x 26.5mm x 7.6mm
Model
Tank Obus CPCP
Movement
Manual Wind cal. 437 MC
Reference
W1516956
Bracelet
Brown Alligator Leather strap
Year
1999
Condition
Very Good
Material
18k Yellow Gold
Included
Watch and Original Sales Receipt
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Featuring Cartier's signature black Roman numerals, the Tank Obus' dial is reserved and quaint, with its wonderful CPCP-specific lotus-pattern guilloche engraving serving as a subtle reminder of just how detail-oriented the famed French jeweler and watchmaker is.
THE MOVEMENT
Thanks to its position within Cartier's esteemed 'Collection Privée Cartier Paris' program, the Tank Obus is powered by Cartier's mechanical manual-wind cal. 437 MC movement that is based on a Piaget caliber. A wonderful sight to behold behind its exhibition caseback, the technically proficient 3Hz cal. 437 MC movement features immaculate rhodium-plating and comes engraved with Cartier's signature 'CC' logo throughout its bridges.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Overall condition is excellent. Dial appears to be blemish free. Case has minor surface abrasions consistent with light usage. Case numbers and hallmarks are strong and visible. Strap and buckle appear to be original to the watch.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic version, shall be provided.
Our Perspective
An underappreciated watch from the CPCP - a historically important piece of Cartier's heritage, the Tank Obus is a hidden gem amongst Cartier's offerings. With its square shape and signature lugs, it has an entirely unique presence on the wrist that few, if any, modern Cartier Tank variants can emulate.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
