Cartier Tank Automatique - '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 20^th 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....

Dating to circa the 1970s, this piece has familiar dimensions, with its 23mm x 31mm rectangular case, but when viewed from the side, its thickness is immediately apparent. Likely produced for only a year or two, this piece is a very early Tank Automatique and the predecessor to the more well-known Tank Automatique 'Jumbo' Ref. 17002 — which utilized a characteristic 'bubble back' caseback to accomodate the automatic-winding movement — this early example simply used a thicker case.

It remains in good condition for its age, showing signs of previous polishing and normal wear throughout. The hallmarks remain visible and the gold has an attractive 'old gold' look to it. The white enamel 'Paris' signed dial inside exhibits some wear and patina from age and is seemingly untouched. It has an always beautiful blued-steel 'sword' handset — which is complimented that ubiquitous blue sapphire cabochon crown.

Accompanied by a Cartier signed strap with a period correct yellow gold deployant clasp, this piece, on the surface, appears to be just a Tank — especially when viewed head-on — yet has a rare hidden twist for one lucky owner. Do you want a Tank but prefer to not manually-wind your watch? Here you go!