Launched in 1917, the Tank was a significant contribution to the evolution of the wristwatch from Cartier. The rectangle timepiece was inspired by the battle tanks that the British troops successfully deployed for the first time under the name “Tank” in the Battle of the Somme on September 15, 1916. The martial appearance of these gigantic tracked vehicles made such a lasting impression on designer Louis Cartier that he immortalized it in the “Tank L. C.”
As a gesture of gratitude for the liberation of France, Louis Cartier presented the first examples of the new rectangular watch model to American General John Joseph Pershing in 1918. Since then, the Tank, a favorite among actors, politicians, and designers, has appeared in countless iterations, without forgoing with its signature characteristics, such as the rectangle case, the railroad minute track, the sword-shaped blue hands and the crown with a sapphire cabochon.
Among the coveted Tank family is the Tank Américaine, debuted in 1989 and inspired by the Tank Cintrée, whose domed case shape it adopted. In 2023, Cartier presents a new execution with a revisited design of the curved shape. As a result, the distinct, pure lines are enhanced by the graphic dial and lugs that are integrated into the case. Measuring 44.4 x 24.4 mm, the Tank Américaine Large Model is available in stainless steel and pink gold.
Both new Cartier Tank Américaine models are equipped with a leather strap and retail for $6,700 respectively $18,000 when converted to USD.
To learn more, visit Cartier, here.
