Introduced in 1989 as a modern reinterpretation of Louis Cartier’s 1917 design, the Tank Américaine WSTA0081 represents the collection's most compact variant. The 28mm by 15.2mm stainless steel case features a curved profile that measures approximately 7mm thick, the watch's powered by a quartz caliber while providing 30 meters of water resistance.
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 / 10 | Great Condition, Visible Wear Production: 2026 Contents: Full-set Genre: Dress Watch
Size: approx 15x28mm Thickness: approx. 7mm Lug Width: approx. 12mm
Case: Stainless steel, brushed and mirrored finish, visible wear Bezel: Fixed, mirrored finish, visible wear Dial: Silver sunburst dial, printed markers and track Hands: Blued sword hands
Crown: Stainless steel, push/pull cabochon crown, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, visible wear Bracelet: Leather strap, visible wear Caseback: Stainless steel, solid, screwed-on, visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche