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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Custom bracelet with original cartier deployant buckle
Est. value range
$3,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
28mm x 20mm
Model
Tank Louis Small
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
78087
Bracelet
Custom 18k gold bracelet on an original 18k yellow gold Cartier deployant clasp
Year
Circa 1990s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Featuring Cartier's signature crisp white dial with their iconic combination of black Roman numerals and blued steel hands, this Tank's dial design has become a lynchpin of the brand's aesthetic.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offered as the smaller of the two Tank Louis options at the time, the ref. 78087 is 28mm x 20mm, making it slightly more svelte than its big brother, the ref. 78086. Adding some presence to its otherwise understated 18kt yellow gld construction, however, this example is offered on a custom 18kt yellow gold bangle-style bracelet that closes using a Cartier deployant clasp.
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. Case shows various surface wear, with small marks and scratches visible along the surfaces. The crystal has a small visible scratch on the surface going across the 9 o'clock index. There are some hairlines visible on the caseback, but all the hallmarks and engravings remain crisp and legible. There is a warm patina that has developed along the surface of the case and bracelet. Dial is excellent, with only minor signs of wear on the edges. The bracelet fits an approx 6 1/2" wrist.
Our Perspective
Perhaps one of the few truly timeless timepieces, the Tank Louis Cartier's aesthetic looks as fresh and modern as ever. Even with its over 100-year-old design, it still looks as contemporary as ever - that's not something a lot of watches can say.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
