"The jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers." Few names in the world of haute horlogerie and high jewellery command as much admiration as Cartier. Introduced in 1921, the Tank Cintrée redefined what a wristwatch could be, conceived not by a traditional watchmaker but by a jeweller with a bold vision. Far larger and more daring than anything else on the market at the time, the Cintrée immediately captured the attention of those seeking something different.

The design of the Cintrée was heavily influenced by the cultural and artistic dynamism of the Roaring 20's, or the "années folles" in France. This was a time of economic prosperity and social transformation, where Art Deco principles flourished, and old conventions were cast aside in favor of bold, modern aesthetics. The Cintrée’s dramatic, curved lines embodied the glamour and exuberance of the era, offering a wrist-hugging design that was both comfortable and avant-garde compared to the rudimentary round or square watches of the time.

The present example, a rare mid-size iteration from circa 1980, measures 36mm in length and features a stunning yellow gold brick-link bracelet that elegantly hugs the wrist. The dial, signed "Cartier Paris," showcases a refined chemin de fer minute track and Roman numeral hour markers, exuding a "Daliesque" charm. French "double eagle" hallmarks on the caseback further confirm the piece’s origin, adding to its allure. This exceptional Tank Cintrée is a testament to Cartier’s ability to blend timeless elegance with bold innovation, making it a true collector’s treasure.