Introduction
Released in 1917, the Cartier Tank was designed by Louis Cartier after he was inspired by the shape of the Renault tanks he saw on the Western Front during WWI. Perhaps one of the most recognizable pieces of horological design to ever be created, the Tank’s rectangular shape, svelte proportions, and timeless aesthetic have enabled it to earn a top spot within the horological hall of fame. Amongst the plethora of models that belong to this iconic collection is perhaps the purest distillation of its design, the Tank Louis Cartier. True to the original, the Tank Louis Cartier features the same classical dial and rounded case sides called “brancards” that stretch to form its lugs as the watch Louis Cartier designed all those years ago, which spawned the now-legendary collection and all of its associated models such as the Tank Francaise, Tank Cintree and so on.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch and Deployant Buckle
Est. value range
$5,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
30mm x 24mm
Model
Tank Louis
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 21
Reference
96019
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1970s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
By combining black Roman numerals with a white dial and sword-shape blued steel hands, Cartier has created a consistent aesthetic that has since formed the foundation of their design language. Additionally, this example sports the sought after "Paris" inscription at 6 o'clock, which further links this example to Cartier's roots.
THE CONSTRUCTION
By combining its simple rectangular case with its exuberant cabochon-capped crown, the Cartier Tank Louis Cartier is a reminder that sometimes, less is more.
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
Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows some surface marks and scratches along the brancards. The caseback retains its original surface finish, with sharp engravings and hallmarks fully visible. The dial has light spotting, but is otherwise in excellent condition. Watch comes with its original deployant buckle and a worn alligator strap that was made for a 6 1/4" wrist.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
A classical and timeless design, the Tank Louis Cartier is perhaps one of the most celebrated and best-known pieces of horological design ever, with its silhouette donning the wrists of aristocracy, royalty, and celebrities for decades.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
