Produced during the early 2000s, this Tank Américaine W2605129 is executed in an 18-karat white gold case measuring 19mm by 35mm. The Américaine line was originally conceived circa 1989 as a water-resistant successor to the Tank Cintrée. This specific variant incorporates a dark grey dial finished with a guilloché pattern and printed Arabic numerals that reflect early Art Deco typography.
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: est. 2009 Contents: Watch and Box Genre: Dress Watch
Size: approx 19x35mm Thickness: approx. 7mm Lug Width: approx. 13mm
Case: 18K white gold, brushed and mirrored finish, visible wear Bezel: 18K white gold, fixed, mirrored finish, visible wear Dial: Dark grey guilloché dial, printed Arabic numerals Hands: White gold, sword hands
Crown: 18K white gold, push/pull spinel crown, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, visible wear Bracelet: Leather strap, visible wear Caseback: 18K white gold, solid, screwed, visible wear Movement: Quartz Caliber: Swiss Ebauche