The Française collection was conceived in 1996 as an addition to the Tank family. The watch is defined by its bracelet whose links form a seamless connection of the brancards. This specific reference is a large variant in quartz with a stainless steel case and bracelet. Its design features the collection's signature angular case, roman numerals, and a synthetic spinel cabochon set into the crown. Custom modifications on this specific watch is an engraving of Buddhist chants and a Japanese family crest on the bracelet.
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: 2003 Contents: Box and Paper Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 25x30mm Thickness: approx. 7.5mm Lug Width: approx. 19mm
Case: Stainless steel Francaise case, brushed and mirrored finish, light visible wear Bezel: Stainless steel brancards, brushed finish, light visible wear Dial: Silver dial, printed roman markers Hands: Blued steel sword hands
Crown: Beaded push-pull crown with synthetic spinel cabochon, light visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, light visible wear Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet, custom Buddhist engravings, light visible wear Caseback: Solid stainless steel, secured with screws, light visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche