In 1917, Louis Cartier introduced the Tank- which has arguably become the brand's most iconic model. It is storied that the first prototype Tank was presented to the US General John Pershing a year later. Since then, Cartier has created many versions of the Tank design, including but not limited to, the Tank Louis, Tank Cintrée, and Tank Normale. The Tank Americaine was introduced in 1989 and immediately became a classic. Inspired by the lines of the Tank Cintrée, the Americaine features a slightly bolder and more athletic profile with an elongated case that curves rather dramatically with the curve of the wrist. Launched in the late 1990s as one of the few manual-wind Tank Americaine references that Cartier has ever produced, the ref. 1735B features the Americaine’s long curved case in bright 18kt yellow gold. Powered by the manual-wind cal. 430MC movement, which is based on the Piaget cal. 430P, it sports a stunning white dial. Additionally, this particular example boasts the ultra-rare burgundy Roman numerals (made as a limited edition for the Italian market in 170 pcs) which differ from the typical black Roman numerals that were usually offered. Additionally, it boasts blued steel hands and Cartier signature railroad-style minute track which is also in red, and Cartier's emblematic blue sapphire cabochon winding crown that completes its aesthetic and allows it to seamlessly slot into Cartier's incredibly wide-ranging array of Tank models as a true classic from the Americaine collection.

The popularity, as well as the prices, of the Cartier Tank and all of its descendants have increased exponentially over the course of the last few years. Taking many design cues from the Cintree, the Tank Americane is a modern watch with vintage sensibilities that is a perfect fit for contemporary sensibilities. We love the unique burgundy index dial of this special piece made in a limited edition for the Italian market.