The Tankissime (Ref. WE70069H) is a distinguished, small-format iteration of the Tank design, positioned as a more elegant interpretation of a ladies watch. Its cased in entirely in 18-karat white gold and featured a factory diamond-set bezel and an octagonal crown set with a sapphire, which categorized the watch as a form of functional jewelry.
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: 7.5 / 10 | Good Condition, Medium Wear Production: est. 2005 Contents: Watch and Box Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 18x28mm Thickness: approx. 6mm Lug Width: approx. 14mm
Case: 18k White Gold case, mirrored finish, light visible wear Bezel: White Gold, set with 22 round brilliant cut diamonds, light visible wear Dial: Silvered matte dial, printed roman numerals, secret signature at 10 Hands: Blued-steel, sword-shaped hands
Crown: White Gold, octagonal, push-pull diamond crown, light visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, light visible wear Bracelet: Aftermarket leather strap, light wear Caseback: White Gold, screwed bezel, light visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche