The Tank à Guichets wristwatch introduced in 1928 marked a significant departure from traditional timepiece designs of its era, embracing the avant-garde aesthetics of the Art Deco movement. Its distinctive jumping hours mechanism and minutes aperture at 6 o'clock set it apart as a masterpiece of both form and function. The term "à Guichets" denotes the French translation of apertures, within which the hour "jumps" as time progresses, adding to its allure and sophistication.
Commemorating their 150th anniversary, Cartier's limited edition Tank à Guichets, released in 1997, pays homage to this iconic timepiece while infusing it with contemporary craftsmanship and luxury. With only 150 examples produced, each watch becomes a coveted collector's item, embodying the timeless elegance and sophistication synonymous with the Cartier brand. Crafted from platinum and adorned with a faceted ruby cabochon crown, this anniversary edition exudes opulence and refinement.
With the auspicious number 007, this example of the Tank à Guichets was formerly in the collection of beloved Cartier expert George Cramer, as evidenced by the service paperwork that accompanies the watch. Sadly, he passed away in 2023 after a period of illness. It is particularly poignant to offer this timepiece once owned by a devotee of the brand and member of the international watch community.