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Lot #1267

Cartier Tank Chinois Platinum with Diamonds Collection Privée Cartier Paris

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Introduction

Launched in 1922 as a stylish reinterpretation of the original Cartier Tank that we all know and love, the Cartier Chinoise features a subtly altered case design that utilizes two overlapping bars that sit atop the dial. As such, the Tank’s typically restrained lug design is made more prominent – a design choice inspired by the architectural lines of a Chinese temple portico. This is derived from the appeal that Far Eastern exotica had on design during the 1920s due to just how unique and splendid it was compared to the West’s typical aesthetics. As is often the case with Cartier, they reintroduced the Tank Chinoise decades after it was originally produced as a throwback to their original designs. A rare watch indeed, this platinum timepiece derives from Cartier’s high-end mechanical design movement, the Collection Privée Cartier Paris. Introduced in 1998 and in production until 2008, the CPCP was known for its incredible mechanical movements, designs inspired by Cartier’s archives (as is the case with then Chinoise), and low production numbers. Produced in platinum and rose gold for only a handful of years, the Cartier Tank Chinoise was a wonderful inclusion in the CPCP and today is a rare and coveted piece of the brand's history and heritage for the signifIcance of its design and role in the CPCP.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 9.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

None

Est. value range

$8,000 – $12,000

The Details

Brand

Cartier

Dimensions

30mm x 37mm

Model

Tank Chinoise CPCP

Movement

Manual wind cal. 437MC

Reference

2685

Bracelet

Crocodile Strap

Year

Circa 2000s

Condition

Excellent

Material

Platinum

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

Silver

THE CONSTRUCTION

While featuring Cartier's signature white dial design with black Roman numerals, the ref. 2685 features a contrastingly exuberant case design as it is adorned with beautiful diamonds.

THE FIT

More square in shape than the regular Tank that preceded it, the Chinoise sits on the wrist with an elegantly low profile to contrast its luxurious aesthetic.

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

Watch is in excellent overall condition with very crisp lines and proportions. Light surface wear to the case and the case back with service sticker from 2018. Strap and buckle are original to the watch.

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 version, shall be provided.

Our Perspective

The crossroads between Chinese inspiration and French design, this Cartier Tank Chinoise CPCP is suitably stunning, in super condition and objectively luxurious.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder