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 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$15,000 – $20,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
30mm x 37mm
Model
Tank Chinoise CPCP
Movement
Manual wind cal. 437MC
Reference
2685H
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2000s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Platinum
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver

THE DISPLAY
While featuring Cartier's signature silver dial design with black Roman numerals and rosette engraving, the ref. 2685 features a contrastingly exuberant case design with its bezel framing its display in an unusual manner.

THE CONSTRUCTION
More square in shape than the regular Tank that preceded it, the Chinoise sits on the wrist with an elegantly low and short profile that contrasts its luxurious and unusual 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. Light surface wear is evident, with some hairlines and minor scratches visible along the surface of the case. Caseback engravings are crisp and fully visible. The guilloche dial in near-mint condition with little to no signs of aging. Watch is accompanied by its original WG deployant buckle.
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
The crossroads between Chinese inspiration and French design, this Cartier Tank Chinoise CPCP is suitably stunning, in super condition and objectively luxurious.













