Cartier Tank Automatique 18K YG (Ref. 17002) "Jumbo XL", 1970s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

The Cartier Tank has become one of the most iconic watch designs of all time, and other than some more eclectic references produced has remained relatively the same over its long run of production. The very first Cartier Tank, the Tank Normale, was originally designed in 1917 and became commercially available in 1919, and its design was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank used by the French Military in the First World War. The Cartier Tank is the perfect example of excellent design transcending generations. The Tank moved through the early 20th century only to become more relevant during the mid-century design era, and is once again seeing a massive resurgence amongst the watch-collecting community today. The Tank Automatique ref. 17002 "Jumbo" is a true anomaly produced by Cartier that has become exceedingly collectible throughout the years. Only produced for a short period of time in the 1970s, these larger Tank wristwatches made a lasting impression. Interestingly, the original Tank Automatique "Jumbo" was produced in two sizes, the "Jumbo" ref. 17011 and the larger "Jumbo XL" ref. 17002. The movement used is a simple yet reliable ETA-based time-only movement, and the case back was manufactured to fit around the movement in a unique bubble design so as to eliminate any excess material and maintain the Tank's minimalist personality. SPECS Stock # CTRAUTO17002-4 Brand Cartier Style Tank Automatique Model 17002 Serial 2XXX Size Men's Material 18K Yellow Gold Dial White Roman "Swiss" Millimeters 28x34.5 Bracelet Cartier 2pc Black Crocodile Leather Strap & Cartier 18K Deployant Buckle CASE & BRACELET The excellent and elegant 18K yellow gold "Jumbo XL" Tank case retains strong dimensions with the original hallmarks present. The crystal is a flat glass replacement which is common to see in early Carter Tanks. The case retains its original and classic blue sapphire cabochon crown. The back of the case exhibits light signs of previous polishing and showcases the "movement bubble" with the original factory markings and engravings remaining intact. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc Cartier black crocodile leather strap that will fit a 7-inch wrist and comes with the original 18K gold Cartier deployant buckle. DIAL & HANDS The white Roman numeral "Swiss" dial is in exceptional overall condition with no spider cracking and no notable damage present, but there are some expected vintage elements of age, namely some gentle spotting from age with no notable damage is present. The original blue hour and minute hands are in excellent condition. ACCESSORIES