The Tank MC houses the in-house Caliber 1904-CH MC. The automatic movement utilizes a column-wheel mechanism and vertical clutch that provide precise activation for the bi-compax chronograph layout.
Cartier introduced the caliber in 2012 to establish in-house production capabilities, marking a transition away from outsourced movements used in previous Tank iterations.
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. 2014 Contents: Watch and Box Genre: Dress Chronograph
Size: 34x44mm Thickness: approx. 12mm Lug Width: approx. 26mm
Case: Stainless steel, mirrored finish, visible wear Bezel: Fixed, mirrored finish, visible wear Dial: Silvered flinqué, printerd Roman numerals, bi-compax layout Hands: Blued steel, sword-shaped hands
Crown: Push/pull spinel crown and pushers, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, visible wear Bracelet: Black leather strap, visible wear Caseback: Stainless steel, exhibition back, screw-down, visible wear Movement: Automatic Chronograph Caliber: 1904-CH-MC