The history of this Cartier Tank Américaine Large
Created in 1917 by Louis Cartier, the Cartier Tank has become one of the Maison's most emblematic luxury watches. Inspired by the tanks of the First World War and the caterpillar tracks of armored vehicles, its rectangular case with parallel stretchers echoes the lines of tanks and imposes a strong signature in the Maison Cartier watch range. Within the Cartier Tank watch collection, the Tank Américaine model appears as a more curved and elongated interpretation, designed to fit the wrist while remaining an urban, dressy icon. More slender than a classic Tank Louis Cartier, this wristwatch is destined for those looking for a luxury accessory with a timeless design, halfway between classic spirit and almost XL allure. The Cartier Tank Américaine presented here is a Cartier Tank Américaine Large in 18-carat white gold, with a flawless, highly legible anthracite guilloché dial with large "exploded" Arabic numerals. Where many Cartier watches displayed their famous Roman numerals and a more traditional rectangular dial, this configuration plays on a slightly vintage, yet resolutely contemporary refinement among the Maison's most emblematic models.
Case, caliber and bracelet
The case of this Cartier Tank Américaine watch in 750 white gold features typical elongated lines, at nearly 27 millimeters wide for approximately 40 mm of horn-to-horn length. This curved profile naturally hugs the curve of the wrist, offering a slender yet balanced presence, a far cry from large, sporty steel watches, while remaining perfectly suited to a dressy occasion watch. The anthracite dial features slender hands, where historic watches often featured sword-shaped hands in blued steel. Here, the hands still take on a sword-like silhouette, gliding over large Arabic numerals and a discreet date window, for smooth, everyday reading. Inside, the tried-and-tested Cartier Calibre 120 self-winding movement provides around 40 hours of power reserve. This watch movement is not stamped MC, but remains precise and reliable, with hours, minutes, central seconds and date, perfectly suited to a demanding second-hand watch. The reference 1741 places this Cartier Tank in the great history of Cartier watches. The black leather strap is closed by an elegant white gold folding clasp, comfortable and secure. In this family, Cartier frequently uses alligator for its high-end bracelets. The winder is adorned with a cabochon of set sapphire, a distinctive detail of Cartier watches, and the ensemble showcases noble materials while retaining the sobriety of a luxury accessory worn every day.
Why this watch
To choose this Cartier watch is to buy a watch that embodies both the tradition and modernity of the Cartier Tank. This Tank Américaine model in white gold, with its anthracite dial and elongated proportions, offers a strong presence without ostentation and can advantageously replace more massive Pasha-type pieces or contemporary sports watches. On the luxury watch market, a well-preserved Cartier occasion like this pre-owned Cartier remains highly sought-after. Cartier Tank watches in this configuration combine timeless design, wrist comfort and perfect legibility. For those new to the world of the Cartier Tank Américaine, this watch could become the first in a collection, or complement an already well-established collection of Cartier Tank watches. A Tank watch of this type remains versatile enough to accompany the different eras of life, from suits to more casual moments, thanks to a case that knows how to bend the light. The watches in this family are among the Maison's most emblematic, and this Cartier Tank watch in white gold is positioned as an iconic choice for those seeking timeless style without flashy diamonds.
Delivered contents and condition
The watch is delivered in its original red Cartier case, a feature appreciated by many collectors who like to keep watches with their complete presentation. No certificate of origin is supplied, which remains common for a second-hand watch of this generation. Classified as new, this Cartier Tank features an impeccable anthracite dial, a polished case in very good visual condition and a bracelet in excellent overall condition. The Swiss Collector watches range from simply good condition to markedly used; here, the level of finish is clearly at the top end of the scale for a carefully selected occasion.
Warranty and delivery
This American Cartier Tank is covered by a 2-year The Swiss Collector warranty, more than 1 year of guarantees beyond what is often offered by players in the second-hand watch market. Each piece is inspected by a partner watchmaker before being put up for sale, to ensure your experience is a safe one and that the caliber functions properly over time. You can collect your pre-owned watch from one of our branches in Switzerland, or opt for insured, tracked shipment, in packaging designed to protect the case and bracelet. Our customer service team remains at your disposal to answer any questions you may have about watches and to help you choose your next Tank watch.
* Like new - new watch, never worn or in exceptional condition. No defects visible to the naked eye.
