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Lot Essay
The present watch is a beautiful example of one of Cartier's "Digital" wristwatches and stands out by its excellent overall condition, showing no signs of extensive wear or any polishing. Consequently, the engraved and stamped inscriptions, numerals and hallmarks are incredibly crisp.
The so-called "Digital" or "Jump Hour" watches enjoyed a great popularity between the late 1920s and the mid 1930s, the sober and purely functional design reflecting the period of great economic depression following the Wall Street crash in 1929.
Cartier's "Tank à Guichets" wristwatch was launched in the late 1920s in several variations as to the positioning and shape of the windows, the crown (flat, faceted or with a sapphire cabochon, to 3 o'clock or 12 o'clock) and the case finishing (either brushed to obtain a matte, satin-finished look or polished or a combination of both).
For a description and illustration of the "Tank à Guichets" model see Cartier - The Tank wristwatch by Franco Cologni, pp. 206 & 207.
The so-called "Digital" or "Jump Hour" watches enjoyed a great popularity between the late 1920s and the mid 1930s, the sober and purely functional design reflecting the period of great economic depression following the Wall Street crash in 1929.
Cartier's "Tank à Guichets" wristwatch was launched in the late 1920s in several variations as to the positioning and shape of the windows, the crown (flat, faceted or with a sapphire cabochon, to 3 o'clock or 12 o'clock) and the case finishing (either brushed to obtain a matte, satin-finished look or polished or a combination of both).
For a description and illustration of the "Tank à Guichets" model see Cartier - The Tank wristwatch by Franco Cologni, pp. 206 & 207.