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
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Service Paper Dated 1995
Est. value range
$5,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
23.5mm x 30.5mm
Model
Tank Louis
Movement
Quartz
Reference
81052
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1990s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch, Box and Service Paper Dated 1995
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
Another element of the Tank Louis' iconic design; its svelte case dimensions. This means it is an excellent unisex option for men looking for a classical timepiece, and women looking for something that will fill their wrists perfectly.
THE PROFILE
Boasting a flat design that sits perfectly on the wrist thanks to its quartz movement, the Tank Louis' rectangular profile is easily recognisable at a glance, especially when combined with its sapphire cabochon winding crown.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. There are some light scratches on the case and light wear to the case and case back screw heads. The case back has light scratches and well-defined engravings. The dial is excellent with very clean blued hands. The watch is fitted with a black alligator Cartier strap and an 18k yellow gold deployant clasp in excellent condition. Comes with a Cartier service box and a service receipt from Cartier USA dated 1995.
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
Perhaps one of the few truly timeless timepieces, the Tank Louis' 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
