The Cartier Tank Américaine reference WSTA0043 is the small-sized model in the collection, distinct from the medium-sized automatic WSTA0044. It features a stainless steel case measuring 34.80mm x 19.00mm, with a thickness of approximately 6.50mm. The watch is powered by a Cartier quartz movement.
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: 9 / 10 | Mint Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2021 Contents: Full-set Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 19x35mm Thickness: approx. 7mm Lug Width: approx. 15mm
Case: Steel case, brushed sides, light visible wear Bezel: Steel, fixed, mirrored brancards, light visible wear Dial: Silvered dial, printed roman markers and tracks Hands: Blued-steel sword-shaped hands
Crown: Steel, octagonal pull-down, set with a blue synthetic spinel, light visible wear Crystal: Original sapphire crystal, light visible wear Bracelet: Original leather strap, light visible wear Caseback: Steel, solid caseback, light visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche