The Evolution of Elegance: A Closer Look at the Must de Cartier Tank
Designed in 1917 by Louis Cartier and inspired by the military tanks of World War I, the Cartier Tank has become an icon of horology over the past century. Today, it stands as Cartier’s flagship watch collection. However, the Tank isn’t a single watch but a family of variations, including the Must de Cartier Tank, featured in this offering.
In 1977, Cartier introduced the Must de Cartier Tank collection as a more accessible version of the Tank Louis Cartier. This move was a response to the Quartz Crisis, which saw affordable Japanese watches disrupting the fine watch market. Unlike the precious gold or platinum cases of earlier Tank models, the Must de Cartier Tanks featured vermeil cases (sterling silver coated in gold) and used ETA-based mechanical or quartz movements rather than the ultra-thin Frédéric Piguet calibers. Despite these changes, the Must de Cartier Tanks maintained the elegant design DNA of the Tank Louis Cartier, making them a commercial hit.
To distinguish the Must de Cartier Tank from its precious metal counterparts, Cartier introduced dials with bold, vibrant colors, forgoing the traditional Roman numerals and minute tracks. These colorful dials quickly gained popularity among the fashion-forward crowd. Over time, the collection expanded to include classic Cartier dial designs, further cementing its place in the brand’s storied history.
Details
- Year of Manufacture: 2014
- Purchased at the Cartier Paris Boutique – Saint-Honoré (17 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré).
- Gently worn. Pristine condition.
- Case: Sterling silver covered in 18K gold vermeil.
- Strap: Black alligator with Cartier Vintage Deployant Clasp
- Certificate of authenticity included.
- Original suede travel pouch with watch pillow.
- The original outer box is not included.
Price: $2,500
No additional fees or taxes.
For details or to purchase this item, please email Bobbi at [email protected].
