Cartier Tank: An Icon of Timeless Elegance

The Cartier Tank, first envisioned by Louis Cartier in 1917, stands as one of the most legendary and enduring designs in the history of horology. Its distinctive rectangular case and integrated lugs, inspired by the top-down silhouette of World War I Renault tanks, created a revolutionary aesthetic that has defined understated sophistication for over a century. The Tank has graced the wrists of royalty, artists, and style icons, cementing its status as a true symbol of Parisian chic and refined taste. This collection offers a diverse range of interpretations, ensuring a Tank model for every discerning individual.

-6%
Original price was: $6,232.00.Current price is: $5,870.00.
Out of stock

The Legacy and Design Philosophy of the Cartier Tank

The genius of the Cartier Tank lies in its perfect harmony of form and function. The clean lines, often featuring Roman numeral dials, blued-steel hands, and a sapphire cabochon crown, are hallmarks of its design. Over the decades, the Tank family has expanded to include iconic variations such as the Tank Française, with its integrated metal bracelet; the elongated Tank Américaine; the classic Tank Louis Cartier, which closely mirrors the original; and the contemporary Tank Must. Each iteration preserves the essential design codes while offering a unique personality. These timepieces are available in materials like stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, and occasionally white gold or platinum, with options for both precise quartz and sophisticated automatic movements.

The enduring value and appeal of the Cartier Tank are well-recognized. The cost of a Tank watch varies depending on the specific model, materials, movement, and whether it is a new or vintage piece. Discerning buyers often research the "cartier tank price" to understand the investment involved in acquiring such a significant piece of design history.

Explore Iconic Cartier Tank Collections & Other Cartier Icons

The Cartier Tank family is diverse. Discover some of its most celebrated lines and other renowned Cartier watch collections:

  • Cartier Tank Française: Known for its assertive chain-link bracelet and modern aesthetic.
  • Cartier Tank Américaine: Characterized by its elongated, elegantly curved rectangular case.
  • Cartier Tank Louis Cartier: Considered the purest expression of the original 1917 design, with softened angles.
  • Cartier Tank Must: A contemporary reinterpretation of a classic, often featuring vibrant lacquer dials or minimalist designs.
  • Santos de Cartier: Explore another pioneering wristwatch design from Louis Cartier, known for its square case and exposed screws.
  • Ballon Bleu de Cartier: Discover the modern elegance of its distinctive rounded case and signature integrated crown guard.
  • Panthère de Cartier: A jewelry icon, celebrated for its supple bracelet and sensual square case, primarily for women.

The Cartier Tank: A Watch for Men and Women of Distinction

The versatile design of the Cartier Tank has made it a favored choice for both men and women throughout its history. While some iterations, like the Tank Française, have distinct "mens tank watch" and ladies' sizes, many models within the Tank Louis Cartier or Tank Must collections are considered unisex, their appeal defined more by personal style than gender. The "cartier tank solo large watch" (a popular past model now largely succeeded by larger Tank Must references) catered to those preferring a more prominent wrist presence. The collection's adaptability is a key part of its enduring legacy, with "tank watches for men" often featuring larger case dimensions or more understated dials, while ladies' versions might incorporate gem-setting or more delicate proportions.

Variations and Craftsmanship

Cartier Tank Française

The Tank Française, with its integrated metal bracelet, offers a bold and contemporary interpretation of the classic Tank silhouette, available in steel, gold, or two-tone.

Cartier Tank Américaine

Characterized by its elongated and curved rectangular case, the Tank Américaine provides an elegant and ergonomic fit on the wrist, often crafted in precious metals.

Tank Louis Cartier

Considered by many to be the purest modern heir to the original 1917 design, the Tank Louis Cartier features softened angles and timeless proportions, typically in gold.

Other important variations include the Tank Must, offering accessible luxury and often vibrant dials, and the historical Tank Solo. Whether you seek a "cartier tank automatic" or a precise "quartz cartier tank," the collection provides options. The "cartier gold tank watch" remains a perennial symbol of status and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cartier Tank Watches

The Cartier Tank is an iconic line of rectangular wristwatches first created by Louis Cartier in 1917. Its design was inspired by the top-down view of World War I tanks, featuring distinctive "brancards" (vertical sidebars that form the lugs). It is celebrated for its timeless elegance and has become one of the most famous watch designs in history.
The price of a Cartier Tank watch varies widely depending on the specific model (e.g., Must, Française, Louis Cartier, Américaine), materials (stainless steel, 18k gold), movement (quartz or automatic), size, and whether it's new or pre-owned. Prices can range from around $3,000 for an entry-level steel Tank Must to well over $20,000 or $30,000 for solid gold or more exclusive models.
The Tank collection includes several renowned sub-models, such as the Tank Louis Cartier (considered the most classic), Tank Française (with an integrated metal bracelet), Tank Américaine (elongated and curved), Tank Must (a modern reinterpretation of the classic Must de Cartier Tank), and the historical Tank Solo.
Yes, the Cartier Tank is a highly versatile design with models and sizes available for both men and women. Many Tank models are considered unisex, especially in medium sizes. Specific variations and sizes within collections like the Tank Française or Tank Louis Cartier cater to different gender preferences.
The Cartier Tank collection offers models with both automatic (self-winding mechanical) movements and precise quartz movements. The choice often depends on the specific model, collection (e.g., Tank Must often features quartz), and price point.
The Cartier Tank's iconic status stems from its revolutionary and timeless design, its rich history and association with influential personalities, its perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, and its ability to remain relevant for over a century.

Why Clients Choose Us

Authentic Luxury Watches

100% Authentic Luxury Watches

Fast Insured U.S. Shipping

Fast Insured U.S. Shipping

NYC Diamond District Showroom

NYC Diamond District Showroom

Discover the timeless allure of the Cartier Tank. Contact our experts for current availability, specific models, and to acquire this horological icon.