Described as the “cornerstone of Cartier watch making†the Tank watch has become one of the most iconic watches in the world; not just for its distinctive shape, but for its timeless elegance and its continuous evolution whilst always staying true to its classic style.
As one of the world’s first square wristwatches; following on from the iconic Cartier Santos designed in 1904, the Tank was created in 1916 by Louis Cartier. This easily recognisable watch has grown to become an icon of modern design.
 “The Tank is an ageless style that embodies the movement of time.â€
Some of the early Tank models set out to be seen more as a piece of jewellery and less as a timepiece; more often than not a quartz movement, these watches had exaggerated design and were made in 18ct gold and adorned with Diamonds. Easily identifiable, this iconic watch is always a little ahead of its time and so when Cartier unveiled three new Tank designs in 2012, the brand banished worries of an economic crisis and reaffirmed faith in the values that no crisis could destroy.
For 2012 the Tank watch family gets a new member in the form of the stylish Tank Anglaise; or the ‘English’ Tank. Already recognised as one of the landmark watches of the twenty-first century Cartier wanted to design a watch that would evoke the third historical pillar in its development: England. The Tank Anglaise is, therefore, a tribute to Cartier’s unity as a company and a demonstration that operates as a perfect triad.
This watch, available in three sizes, is a strong reminder that elegance doesn’t have to be just for the ladies. Produced in three colour’s of gold, steel and rose gold, and two jewellery models – one of which is fully set with brilliant cut diamonds – this model gives a subtle nod to the original Art Deco style of the Tank with its classic dial and Roman Numeral indices. The polished finish and rounded edges of the case brings softness, especially to the large model that is a generous 36.5mm wide and 47mm tall.
For this model it seems Cartier have taken inspiration from their Ballon Bleu; the sides of the case are rounded and feel chunky and the crown is placed in the centre of a very wide bezel. However, this unusual design does still incorporate a large sapphire crystal cabochon, or a diamond, that slightly protrudes the side of the case.
The watch is comfortable and looks great; the construction and design of the bracelet encompasses all the elegance associated with a Tank watch by providing an unbroken line between the case and the bracelet ensuring it sits neatly and comfortably on the wrist.
“The Tank Anglaise seemingly follows to the letter the aesthetic demands of Louis Cartier in his quest for streamlined design.â€
The Tank Anglaise in 18ct Yellow Gold – small size
Available in either white, rose or yellow gold and stainless steel and rose gold.
Water Resistance:Â Â 30m/100ft/10bars
Case Dimensions:Â Â 22.7mm x 30.2mm
Case Thickness:Â Â 7.19mm
Dial:Â Â Flinque, silvered lacquered with blued steel sword-shaped hands
Crystal:Â Sapphire
Movement:Â Â Quartz movement caliber 057
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Available in either white, rose or yellow gold and stainless steel and rose gold.Water Resistance:Â Â 30m/100ft/10bars
Case Dimensions:Â Â 29.8mm x 39.2mm
The Cartier Tank Anglaise in Stainless Steel and Rose Gold in small,medium and large sizes.
Case Thickness:Â Â 9.5mm
Dial:Â Â Flinque, silvered lacquered with blued steel sword-shaped hands
Crystal:Â Sapphire
Movement:Â Â Mechanical with automatic winding caliber 077
Available in either white, rose or yellow gold and stainless steel and rose gold.
Water Resistance:Â Â 30 Meteres/100ft/10bars
Case Diameter: 36.2 mm x 47 mmÂ
Case Thickness:Â Â 9.82 mm
Dial:Â Â Silver and lacquered flinque dial, Roman numerals, blue-steel sword-shaped hands
Crystal:Â Sapphire
Movement:Â Â Self-winding mechanical Manufacture movement caliber Cartier 1904MC
This Tank will certainly have a place in Cartier’s history as the large model features their own in-house movement, the calibre 1904 MC automatic; the very first of Cartier’s extensive Tank portfolio to have a movement designed, produced and assembled entirely within the company. This watch is finished off beautifully with the open sapphire case back – perfect for viewing this beautiful feat of engineering.
So the Cartier Tank remains firmly seated as one of the brands finest achievements. Revolutionised for the 21st Century the Anglaise gives lovers of Cartier Tank models something new to aspire to and the desire to continue to add to the Tank family shows that Cartier’s love affair with their Tank pieces is still going strong.
The stunning open case back on the large model displaying the in-house movement
The large model still looks elegant with its generous 36.2mm case
The sapphire cabochon set into the crown