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Lot Essay
The present "Tank" is a fine example of Cartier’s most famous wristwatches, originally inspired by the Renault tanks that the firm's founder Louis Cartier had seen in use on the Western Front during the First World War. The model was introduced in 1918, entering full production in 1919, when six pieces were made.
The original prototype watch was given by Louis Cartier to the American General, John Pershing. One of the great design classics of the 20th century, the Tank is both a square and a rectangle at the same time. The Tank watch is defined by its bold Roman numeral dial with a railway minute ring and a sapphire cabochon-set winding crown.
A similar watch is illustrated in: Cartier The Tank Watch, Franco Cologni, 1998, p. 185. & Le Temps de Cartier, Barracca, Negretti & Nencini, 1989, p. 207.
The original prototype watch was given by Louis Cartier to the American General, John Pershing. One of the great design classics of the 20th century, the Tank is both a square and a rectangle at the same time. The Tank watch is defined by its bold Roman numeral dial with a railway minute ring and a sapphire cabochon-set winding crown.
A similar watch is illustrated in: Cartier The Tank Watch, Franco Cologni, 1998, p. 185. & Le Temps de Cartier, Barracca, Negretti & Nencini, 1989, p. 207.