Cartier Tank Automatique 'Jumbo' XL - 'Paris' Dial
The Cartier Tank was one of the first wristwatches. Full stop!
Inspired by the Renault Tanks used on the battlefield in WWI — yes, true story. Revolutionary at the time, Louis Cartier took inspiration from the profile of the treads on a period Renault tank, and based the case on them by way of the of brancards doubling as the lugs themselves. Over the course of the 20th Century, the Tank became the watch to wear. Silent movie stars like Rudolph Valentino, artists like Andy Warhol, and even Jackie Kennedy were all fans of the signature timepiece from the King of Jewelers and the Jeweler of Kings. An icon indeed in the truest sense of the word.
The model was first introduced in a few different case shapes which bore different names that intertwine with the inspiration behind them.
Perhaps the most significant, well-known, and debatably desirable of these first pieces, the Tank Louis Cartier, was introduced in 1922 and was named after Louis Cartier himself. When people think of a Cartier Tank, theres a good change that this is the model that comes to mind.
The Tank that we have here is a variation of that original model — though with a few differences....
The piece we have here, is known as a 'Jumbo XL' for its increased dimensions over the usual 23mm x 31mm Tank Louis, and even the slightly smaller 'Jumbo.' It comes in at approximately 28mm x 35mm, but when viewed from the side, it's thickness, or lack thereof, is immediately apparent. These cases feature a small 'bubbleback' case design to accommodate the automatic-winding movement within.
This example dates to circa the 1970s and comes to us in strong overall condition. The case remains thick and retains symmetrical proportions with crisp hallmarks and engravings throughout. Inside, the white enamel 'Paris' signed dial inside is very well preserved, seemingly devoid of any fracturing and major wear, and the black text remains crisp and clear. It has an always beautiful blued-steel 'sword' handset — which is complimented that ubiquitous blue sapphire cabochon crown. It also comes with a period-correct yellow gold deployant clasp.
Do you want a Tank but prefer to not manually-wind your watch? Here you go!
Condition Report & Details
Condition:
Movement:
Bracelet/Strap:
Shipping, Returns, & Warranty
Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
- We do not guarantee water resistance and do not warranty against moisture or water damage. Deliberate exposure to water or steam is not recommended.
Warranty Exclusions:
- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
- Our warranty is non-transferable.
The Oliver & Clarke Guarantee
At Oliver & Clarke, we meticulously vet each watch to ensure its authenticity and quality. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our mission is to help you find the perfect timepiece. If you have any questions, we are here to assist you promptly.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
Choose options
"As collectors themselves, Oliver and Clarke are on a mission to make buying vintage watches as painless as possible."
"The company focuses on good prices for its pieces, elite customer service and full transparency."
"The appointment-only space is inviting, with comfortable seating areas and exposed brick walls."
From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.
Oliver & Clarke