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. Special ordered and potentially a piece unique, the Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier we have here features the Tank Obus' signature design aesthetic but with some twists such as the faceted sapphires on its lug screws and grenee finish dial, which is different to the typical production white gold version's dial. Made of platinum and powered by a manual-wind movement, this stunning watch was so aesthetically rich that it featured on page 192 of the book "White Cartier Bianco" published by Antiquorum.
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Grade
M 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$25,000 – $40,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
33mm x 23 mm
Model
Rectangulaire a Pattes vis Armurier
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
Tank Obus
Bracelet
Leather strap with 18kt white gold deployant clasp
Year
Circa 2000s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Platinum
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting a stunning silver display, this example'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 and its rather high 'Paris' signature at 6 o'clock.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Made of platinum and designed like a Tank Obus, this example features a blue enamel-filled bezel that differs from the black enamel-filled bezels that we normally see. Additionally, its lug screws feature faceted sapphires which add another element to luxury to this stunning timepiece.
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. Please note that the watch ticks when wound, but it is not keeping time according to the timing machine readout and a service is recommended.
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case shows minor signs of wear, with some marks and light scratches visible on the surface. The caseback retains crisp engravings, hallmarks and makers mark. Enamel bezel does not have any visible chips. Original grenee finish dial in very good condition with dark spotting visible on the surface. Watch comes with its original 18k WG deployant and a strap that fits a 6 1/2" wrist. Please note that the watch ticks when wound, but it is not keeping time according to the timing machine readout 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
Special ordered and potentially unique, this incredible watch was good enough to feature on page 192 of the book "White Cartier Bianco" published by Antiquorum thanks to its stunning grenee finish dial, the faceted sapphires on its screws and its beautiful blue enamel-filled bezel.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
