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Lot #1026

Cartier Tank Basculante 18k Yellow Gold Mechanical Wind

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Introduction

An incredibly iconic timepiece, the Cartier Tank features one of the most easily recognizable watch designs of all time. With its thin rectangle-shaped case and elegant dial, it remains as classical a timepiece today as when it was first released in 1917. Inspired by the Renault FT-17 Tank, the Cartier Tank is, somewhat ironically, a dress watch. Recognizing the need for a more robust variant, Cartier released the Tank Basculante. Launched in 1933, Cartier took inspiration from the JLC Reverso, another classically styled early sports watch that would rotate within its case, to create the Tank Basculante, a watch that would also turn in its case. As such, the Basculante rotates vertically along the 12 to 6 axis within its case to protect its dial from damage caused during sports, and enabling it to double as a table clock if you so wished. A pillar of Cartier's elegant design, this 1950's example features black Roman numerals on a white dial with blued steel leaf-shaped hands to complete its understated and sleek aesthetic. 


Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.0

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$15,000 – $25,000

The Details

Brand

Cartier

Dimensions

20mm x 39mm

Model

Basculante

Movement

Mechanical, European Watch & Clock

Reference

N/A

Bracelet

Leather

Year

1950

Condition

Excellent

Material

18k Yellow Gold

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

White

THE CASE

Unlike the well known JLC Reverso, the Basculante folds over vertically, not horizontally. The patent for this mechanism was granted in 1932.

THE CLASP

The watch comes with a classic Edmond Jaeger style deployant clasp that Cartier is famous for. It bears French hallmarks along the blade.

THE WRIST SHOT

The classic good looks of a Cartier Tank, with a literal twist!

Condition

The overall condition of the watch is exceptional. Dial appears to be original, with a hint of minor paint loss along the edge at 11 o' clock. The case is also in great shape, with strong hallmarks and clearly visible serial number. Buckle seems to be original to the watch. The strap however, is a replacement done at a later stage by Jean Rousseau.

Due to the nature of case design, it was not possible to source an accurate reading from the ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic skin version, shall be provided.

Our Perspective

One of Cartier's iconic original designs, the Tank Basculante was initially designed for sport, as the rotating case was a means to protect the dial of the watch when necessary. This original vintage example hails from the 1950's, and the "HSA" engraving on the back indicates it was serviced by Cartier sometime in the modern era. Vintage Cartiers' in original condition are seldom available, and this is a great opportunity to acquire a veritable Cartier design classic.

Eric Ku

Co-founder