Cartier Tank Louis Medium - Mechanical - c. 1970

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Description

A gold case, flared side lugs, a railroad-track minute scale, blue hands, and a winding crown set with a sapphire Cabochon: all the hallmarks of the Tank Louis Cartier are in place. Instantly recognizable by its iconic design, this watch has lost none of its charm. It is elegant, practical, and very comfortable on the wrist.

This is the medium-sized model, which will also appeal to connoisseurs as it features a manual-winding movement and a “Paris” dial—the House’s secret signature indicating Parisian manufacture. Its less common pointed Cabochon and gold-plated Cartier pin buckle add to the model’s charm. It will appeal to those who love flat watches, as it harmonizes with the contours of the wrist. Thanks to its white dial, it can be paired with a Bracelet in any color of your choice, depending on your taste and the season. 

How to wear it?

This Tank Louis Cartier is truly perfect for any occasion. It’s a watch that’s a pleasure to wear and admire. It’s particularly well-suited for everyday life, whether casual or elegant. 

Why did Françoise choose it?

Because it’s a watch we can’t help but recommend, and it’s quite rare in these smaller Dimensions. It’s a must-have, both historically and stylistically. A watch that will never lose its value, especially with a manual-winding movement and a custom-made gold folding clasp. It is, par excellence, the watch one takes pleasure in passing down—a timepiece that combines technical mastery with aesthetic appeal: functionality, elegance, and craftsmanship are all in abundance. The Tank “was brilliantly designed to remain eternally contemporary.” That is why we have complete confidence in it.

History

The Tank watch, known as the Tank Normale, first appeared in 1917 in honor of the heroes of World War I, its design inspired by the first tanks. Five years later, the Tank Louis Cartier was introduced—a model very similar to the original but with a more elongated dial and thinner, more rounded lugs. Several generations followed, retaining the same signature design elements while adapting to new watchmaking technologies such as Quartz. Numerous celebrities have embraced it, including Jackie Kennedy, Lady Diana, Alain Delon, Catherine Deneuve, Yves Saint-Laurent, Gary Cooper, Johnny Hallyday, and Sophia Coppola, to name just a few. Will you be next?