The Tank Must SolarBeat™, introduced in 2021, integrates a high-autonomy photovoltaic movement into Cartier's most established design. It was released as a component of the revived Tank Must collection, a line historically positioned as an accessible entry point to the manufacture. The primary technical feature is a dial with micro-perforations in the Roman numerals, which permit light to reach the underlying photovoltaic cells.
Founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier approaches horology with the perspective of a master jeweler, prioritizing form, proportion, and aesthetic purity. The Maison was a crucial pioneer of the modern wristwatch, creating the purpose-built Santos-Dumont in 1904 for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont and later the iconic Tank in 1917, whose "brancards" seamlessly integrated the case and lugs into a singular design.
While historically collaborating with ebauche movement suppliers, Cartier has since invested significantly in its own manufacture capabilities in Switzerland, developing a suite of in-house calibres. The brand's enduring significance lies not in technical innovation, but in creating a portfolio of iconic case shapes that are foundational to watchmaking itself.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2022 Contents: Box and Paper Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 22x30mm Thickness: approx. 7mm Lug Width: approx. 15mm
Case: Stainless steel mirror finished case, light visible wear Bezel: Steel rounded brancards, mirrored finish, light visible wear Dial: Silvered dial, printed Roman numerals and tracks Hands: Sword-shaped, blued-steel hands
Crown: Steel push-pull cabochon crown, light wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, light visible wear Bracelet: Black strap, light visible wear Caseback: Steel solid screwed caseback, light visible wear Movement: Solar Quartz Caliber: SolarBeat™ Quartz