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.
Offered here we have an 18kt yellow gold Tank made by Universal Geneve for Cartier New York, who retailed it back in the 1960s. Powered by an automatic-wind movement within an 18kt yellow gold case with scrolled lugs and boasting a white dial with black Roman numerals and an elegant font for Cartier’s signature, this timepiece exudes the classy aesthetic that Cartier has come to typify.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$2,000 – $4,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
33mm x 23mm
Model
Tank
Movement
Automatic Movement
Reference
124102/3
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1960s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Speaking to the classical Cartier aesthetic, this Universal Geneve-made Tank features a white dial with black Roman numerals and thin black hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
While overwhelmingly Tank-like in its construction, Universal Geneve still managed to put their own twist on the ref. 124102/3 with its scrolled lugs and bevelled edge leading up both of the watch's branchards.
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
The watch is overall in excellent condition. The yellow gold case is still very well defined, with some light marks and a couple of scratches on the crown side. The case back has light scratches and still fully legible engravings. The watch retains its 'U' Universal crown in excellent condition. The dial is in very good condition, with some signs of aging around the Cartier signature. The crystal has some marks and cracks. The watch is fitted with a Cartier lizard skin strap with yellow gold Cartier deployant clasp in excellent condition. The caseback has fully legible Cartier numbers and a date code of 12/70. Cartier deployant is also fully signed. 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
A subtle and unique twist on the Cartier Tank, the ref. 124102/3 combines a timeless icon with Universal Geneve's subtle input to create a watch that is truly special.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
