Cartier Must de Cartier Tank Vermeil “Plain Black” SM w/ Box (circa 1970s)

WHY WE CURATED IT:
The importance of Must de Cartier Tanks is often overlooked. They were one of the main contributors to the survival of Cartier some 50-odd years ago when the boom of post-WWII France faded, and with it, demand for luxury goods. At the same time, cheap mass-produced quartz watches were flooding in from Asia. Cartier’s solution? Make accessible versions of the (otherwise full-gold) iconic Tank Louis but in gold-plated 925 silver instead, and mostly with Swiss quartz calibres. This runaway success kept Cartier’s watch business afloat, unlike much of the European industry. This version is in the SM size, with an ultra-chic, coveted “Plain Black” dial. And uncommonly, with a manual-wind mechanical movement. In great condition, serviced and warrantied, with original Cartier box, strap and buckle, as well as a new aftermarket strap. Snag this forever icon of elegance as these do not show up often!

CONDITION:
9.5/10, with minimal light hairlines only. A couple of rainbow patina spots, appreciated by vintage aficionados as crafted by the passage of time. We’ve left it in its natural state but they are removable upon request if you prefer. Original “Swiss-only” black lacquer dial is clean overall with some subtle spidering as reassuring indication of period correctness. Some tiny microscopic marks on the crystal and there are some slight age spots on the hands. Caseback engravings/hallmarks deep and crisp. Original Cartier black lizard strap used but with good amount of life remaining, fitted with original Cartier pin buckle. Movement serviced with a 6-month warranty and in excellent health with above-spec power reserve, high amplitude, low beat error and accurate to ±5 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.

DIMENSIONS:
20.6mm width excl. crown
28mm length incl. lugs
6.7mm thickness
15mm lug width
Visual dial width ~13.7mm
Wrist in photos is 15.8cm

CRYSTAL:
Mineral glass

CASE:
925 silver, 20 micron gold-plating

WATER RESISTANCE:
Assumed none, per vintage watches

STRAP:
Original Cartier black lizard strap and Cartier buckle (14mm)

CALIBRE:
Cartier Cal. 78-1, 2-hander manual-winder

COMES WITH:
Watch, Cartier lizard strap, Cartier buckle, Cartier box, Cartier booklets

TERMS OF SALE:
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