Introduced in 1921 as an update to the 1917 military-inspired blueprint, the Tank Louis Cartier established the rounded 18k yellow gold brancards present on this 29.5mm by 22mm reference W1529856.
Produced circa 2002, this specific model maintains the exact geometric proportions Louis Cartier finalized over eighty years prior, preserving the silver-grained dial and blued-steel sword hands without external alteration.
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, Visible Wear Production: 2002 Contents: Full-set Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 22x30mm Thickness: approx. 6mm Lug Width: approx. 16mm
Case: 18K yellow gold, mirrored sides, minor visible wear Bezel: 18K yellow gold, mirrored finish, minor visible wear Dial: Silver-grained, printed Roman numerals and track Hands: Blued-steel, sword-shaped
Crown: 18K yellow gold cabochon push/pull crown, minor visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, minor visible wear Bracelet: Brown leather strap with 18k yellow gold buckle, minor visible wear Caseback: 18K yellow gold, solid, screwed, minor visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche