What Separates The Cartier Tank From The Rest?

In the world of luxury watches, Cartier holds a special place. The brand has always represented the finest of Haute Horlogerie in the industry. Some of the most glorious watch families in the industry belong to this French origin Swiss watchmaker. One of these families is called the Cartier Tank, which is also the topic for this discussion. The Tank was conceived in 1917 and then presented to the public in 1918. However, it was not until 1919 that the Tank achieved a full-fledged production. Surprisingly, only six pieces were built that year.

But what makes this vintage looking mechanical watch so unique? Let us find out.

Inspired By Military Tanks

The watch was a product of the inspiration that Louis Cartier got from tanks used in the First World War. You need to understand that the Great War was a completely different time. Tanks were a privilege and not many people actually saw a tank in action. So, the awe from viewing one of the tanks in person is understandable. The shape of the Cartier Tank is exactly like that of the French and British tanks used between 1914 and 1919.

First Watch To Ever Work On the Style Factor

The Cartier Tank is special because out of all the watches in its era, it was the first one to highlight the importance of style in wristwatches. For instance, the use of leather straps in watches was a totally functional idea as it was seen as a way to hold the watch in place. This utilitarian approach was later changed by the introduction of fashion-forward leather straps. The same goes for the watch itself. Cartier did what was probably expected of it. It concocted fashion with form, and we have nothing to complain about. Thanks to Cartier watches for men, the timepieces we see today are the way they are. 

One Of The Most Re-Invented Watches

Cartier watches for women are known globally for their unapologetic beauty and grace. Now, the Cartier Tank is a different story altogether. The watch is one of the very few in history to be re-invented so many times. The watch was launched in 1919 and it is quite understandable that multiple renditions were bound to happen. Over the years, the watch has been relaunched in various forms. The most prominent ones are the Tank Americaine, the Tank Francaise, and the Tank Anglaise. Another mentionable version is the Tank Guichets which was launched in 1928. The timepiece only displayed the hours and the minutes in separate windows boxed inside a gold case with leather straps.

At the end of the day, the Cartier Tank watch is an ageless classic. It has been in constant production since the day it was unveiled to the public. Its popularity defied all odds and is somewhat mysterious. Despite the fading demand for vintage looking watches and the changing zeitgeist, the Tank has been able to hold its ground and maintain its image as one of the most desired watches in the world.