42
Cartier
Tank Chinoise
A very rare and elegant platinum rectangular wristwatch with “Paris” signature, sapphire cabochon crown and fitted box
Full-Cataloguing
- One of the rarest Tank models, produced in very small numbers
- Featuring the desirable “Paris” signature on the dial
- Accompanied by warranty certificate and fitted case
First introduced in 1922, the Tank Chinoise is one of Cartier’s most distinctive and elegant Tank variations. Created during the Art Deco period, its defining feature is the pair of horizontal brancards across the case, inspired by traditional Chinese architecture. The design gives the watch a unique architectural character while remaining faithful to the clean lines of the original Tank.
This platinum example dates to around 1996 and belongs to an important transitional period for Cartier, just before the launch of the Collection Privé Cartier Paris (CPCP). During this era, Cartier began returning to traditional mechanical watchmaking, producing a number of historically inspired models in limited quantities.
The platinum case retains the compact proportions of the original Tank Chinoise and is paired with a classic Cartier dial featuring the desirable "Paris” signature on the dial, blued steel hands, and a sapphire cabochon crown.
Part of an extremely small series of watches, our research indicates that only 10 examples have previously been offered publicly. Platinum Tank Chinoise models are therefore rarely encountered on the market. Complete with its original accessories, this exceptional example has become one of the most sought-after neo-vintage Cartier creations among collectors.
Cartier
FrenchWith the Constitution of 1848 came a new standard for luxury in France. Founded one year prior by Louis-Francois Cartier, the house of Cartier was one of the first to use platinum in jewelry making. This incredibly expensive material became the stepping-stone for Cartier to experiment in form, mechanisms and attitude. It helped men move from pocket watches to wristwatches, effectively making the watch much more functional and prominent in a man's overall wardrobe.
Cartier did not only touch on functionality. Inspired by a commissioned painting by George Barbier featuring a black panther at the feet of an elegantly bejeweled woman, Cartier began incorporating wild animals in his designs—most notably, Cartier Panthère rings, bangle bracelets and watches. Yet it wasn't until the late 1960s that the house of Cartier debuted their iconic yellow and rose gold LOVE collection, which includes the famous bracelet that only a special screwdriver can open.