Cartier Tank Louis 17011 "Small Jumbo Automatique"

Dealer description — Collectors Corner NY

The Cartier Tank has achieved iconic status in the world of watch design and, with the exception of a few distinctive variations, has maintained a consistent aesthetic throughout its extensive production history. The first commercially available Tank Normale was introduced in 1919, having been inspired by the treads of the French Renault FT-17 tank used in WW1. Throughout the decades, Tank watches have been documented on the wrists of notable figures from Jackie Kennedy to Andy Warhol. Today, vintage Cartier watches feel more relevant in the worlds of fashion, music and popular culture than ever before. As Cartier scholarship develops, the recognition of what is more rare has become more apparent in recent years. This Tank Automatic "Jumbo" ref. 17011 is one such example of a seldom seen gem. Any automatic Tank is rare in an of itself (the "Jumbo XL ref. 17002 being the larger counterpart), however we believe this smaller cased version to have been produced in even fewer quantities (collectors speculate 1-200 examples were made) and would agree its proportions wear better on wrist. This example, circa 1970s features a "Swiss" signed dial that shows honest wear. The case has seen some polishing in the past but still retains very legible markings. We love the standard vintage Tank Louis size but this reference is perfect for anyone who doesn't mind some patina and is looking for slightly more wrist presence with some added scarcity.