Maker: Cartier
Reference: 78086
Model: Tank Louis LM size
Year: 1977
Serial Number: 7808614868
Dial: white Paris signed dial
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold
Case Dimensions: 30.5mm by 23.5 diameter; 6.1mm thickness including crystal
Caliber: Manual caliber 78-1
Service history: November 2023, running at -30.2 seconds per day
Bracelet/Strap: Brown Lizard strap by Handdn (pictured) and Cartier gold plated pin buckle
Lug Width: 17mm
Box/Papers: original Cartier outer/inner box, guarantee card holder, International certificate of guarantee, and Tank Louis instruction manual.

In 1917, inspired by the new Renault tanks which were in use on the Western Front, Louis Cartier designed the Tank. Its lines and proportions are therefore similar to those of tanks found on First World War battlefields; rectangular with its strap seamlessly integrated into vertical sidebars called "brancards". In existence for over 100 years, the Tank is a truly timeless watch and its no surprise that it has been worn by celebrities long before watch companies had "Brand ambassadors". Cartier continues to include the Tank Louis Cartier in its current collection, which speaks to the enduring appeal of this classic dress watch from the Paris maison.

In the early 1970s, Cartier unveiled a series of 12 uniquely designed watches, collectively known as the "Louis Cartier Collection." This lineup featured notable models like the Ellipse, Cristallor, Gondollo, and Stepped Tank, alongside the iconic Tank Louis. Among these, the Tank Louis Cartier stands out as perhaps the most prominent and sought-after. First introduced in 1922, this model was named in honor of Louis Cartier himself. When most people envision a Cartier Tank watch, chances are, this is the version that springs to mind.

Overall, this Tank Louis Cartier is in fantastic vintage condition. The case is in beautiful, unpolished shape and retains its original edge and curves. The dial is the original Paris signed white lacquered dial which is rare given most dials get replaced by Cartier during servicing to a "Swiss made" dial. As with the vast majority of Cartier white lacquered dials produced in the 70's, the dial has formed some cracks throughout the dial but nothing major. The original black painted numerals is in beautiful condition. The blue steel handset and blue sapphire cabochon crown are all original and is in great condition. The caliber 78-1 movement is currently running at -30.2 seconds per day. The watch comes as a full set with its original Cartier outer/innner box, guarantee card holder, International certificate of guarantee, as well as its Tank Louis instruction manual.

Ships from Japan

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