Cartier Tank Reverso 'Dual Time' - White & Gold 'Paris' Dials Full Set

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.

In the late 1960s, Cartier released a timepiece with a reversible case design similar to that of Jaeger-LeCoultre's famed Reverso from circa 1931. This piece is known as the Tank Reverso. Only a short time after, it would be followed up with another Tank Reverso — this time with dual-time capability. These pieces, however, would not display two timezones on one dial and risk compromising the simplicity, legibility, and elegance that Cartier had become known for, but would leverage the two-personality nature of the Reverso design and take the form of two dials, each with their own movement! A true two-for-one.

The piece that we have here is is one those very watches, dating to circa the mid-late 1970s. The case comes in at 24mm x 33mm and is a fantastic size for virtually any wrist. The added weight of the additional movement, dial, etc. amount to a real presence on the wrist, feeling significantly more substantial than your typical Cartier of the era. The case remains in fantastic likely-unpolished condition, showing normal signs of wear and some 'sleeve polish' throughout with no significant blemishes or impressions, and crisp hallmarks and engravings on the backside. The white enamel 'Paris' dial is also in fantastic condition, with beautifully preserved printing. It is complimented Cartier' usual blued-steel 'sword' handset. The brushed gold tone dial on the flipside is better yet, remaining in seemingly-flawless condition — this time paired with a gold 'pencil' handset. The two movements are operated not by two of Cartiers ubiquitous sapphire cabochon crowns, but by two low-profile crowns that sit flush with the top and bottom of the inner case, respectively. This lends for a very clean, symmetrical design that suits the watch perfectly.

This example is also accompanied a smooth brown calf strap with its correct, matching yellow gold deployant clasp and it's box, booklets, and warranty card. An outstanding package.

This heavy-hitter isn't just all looks, but properly functional. A true dual-time watch with a party trick thats not going to get old anytime soon.