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. The Rectangulaire A Pattes Ais Armurier we have here features the Tank Obus' signature design aesthetic but with some twists such as the faceted diamonds on its lug screws and silver guilloche engraved Paris-signed dial. Made of 18kt white gold, boasting black enamel along its bezel, which features roman numerals and powered by a manual-wind movement, this stunning watch is an elegant expansion of the Tank's typical design language into the realm of true luxury.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$20,000 – $40,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
33mm x 23mm
Model
Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
Tank Obus
Bracelet
Leather strap with 18kt white gold deployant clasp
Year
Circa 1990s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt white gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting a stunning silver display, the Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier's dial design deviates from Cartier's typical layout in subtle ways, with its blued steel hands being Breguet in style rather than sword-shaped, its lack of Roman numerals - which feature along its enamel-filled bezel - and its rather high 'Paris' signature at 6 o'clock.
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.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Made of 18kt white gold and designed like a Tank Obus, the Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier features a black enamel-filled bezel that surrounds its bright silver display. Additionally, its lug screws feature faceted diamonds which add another element of luxury to this stunning timepiece.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The 18k white gold case shows minor signs of wear, with light scratches and some marks along the case edges. The case back has crisp engravings and hallmarks. The enamel bezel is in excellent condition, with no scratches or cracks. The Paris-signed guilloché dial is in very good condition, complemented by clean blued hands. The watch is fitted with a black alligator strap and 18k white gold deployant clasp. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
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
Showcasing Cartier's embrace of unadulterated luxury, the Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier takes the Tank Obus' unique design and embelishes it with distinctive differences that make it all the more special.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
