Cartier Tank Automatique 'Jumbo' XL, 'Swiss' Dial

Dealer description — Oliver & Clarke

The Cartier Tank was one of the first wristwatches. Full stop! Inspired by the Renault Tanks used on the battlefield in WWI — yes, true story. Revolutionary at the time, Louis Cartier took inspiration from the profile of the treads on a period Renault tank, and based the case on them by way of the of brancards doubling as the lugs themselves. Over the course of the 20 th Century, the Tank became the watch to wear. Silent movie stars like Rudolph Valentino, artists like Andy Warhol, and even Jackie Kennedy were all fans of the signature timepiece from the King of Jewelers and the Jeweler of Kings. An icon indeed in the truest sense of the word. The model was first introduced in a few different case shapes which bore different names that intertwine with the inspiration behind them. Perhaps the most significant, well-known, and debatably desirable of these first pieces, the Tank Louis Cartier, was introduced in 1922 and was named after Louis Cartier himself. When people think of a Cartier Tank, theres a good change that this is the model that comes to mind. The Tank that we have here is a variation of that original model — though with a few differences.... The piece we have here, is known as a 'Jumbo XL' for its increased dimensions over the usual 23mm x 31mm Tank Louis, and even the slightly smaller 'Jumbo.' It comes in at approximately 28mm x 35mm, but when viewed from the side, it's thickness, or lack thereof, is immediately apparent. These cases feature a small 'bubbleback' case design to accommodate the automatic-winding movement within. This example dates to circa the 1970s and comes to us in strong overall condition. The case remains thick and retains symmetrical proportions with crisp hallmarks and engravings throughout. Inside, the white enamel 'Swiss' signed dial inside is very well preserved, seemingly devoid of any fracturing and major wear, and the black text remains crisp and clear. It has an always beautiful blued-steel 'sword' handset — which is complimented that ubiquitous blue sapphire cabochon crown. Do you want a Tank but prefer to not manually-wind your watch? Here you go!