A solid eighteen carat yellow gold quartz Cartier Tank with an original gold haute jewelry bracelet pavé set. The Tank is perhaps one of the most iconic watches of all time (and certainly one that has been desired by and worn by some of the most celebrated figures of the 20th Century to this current day). In fact, it feels that this special gem of watch design is actually entering into a renaissance in its desirability and collectibility – especially original examples from this era.
This is an exceptionally rare haute joaillerie example of Cartier's cherished icon. The classic, but this time reduced, Tank Louis case has both sides completely, and seamlessly pavé diamond set done in house by Cartier. Not only is the case set, but also the center links of the bracelet are also set to add an additional sparkle throughout the whole watch.
The watch has all the details that Cartier lovers flock to the brand for – the Roman numeral dial with the hidden signature at the seven o’clock position, chemin de fer minute track, sword blued steel hands and a blue sapphire set winding crown. The dial is in excellent condition with no signs of crazing or damage from moisture or dirt, as can often be the case with these watches that can suffer from not being very tightly sealed. The case shows no signs of having been polished over the years, with all of the stamping and unique Cartier reference numbers are still visible on the case back. The watch is powered by a quartz movement.
The watch sits on a fine and beautifully made solid eighteen carat yellow gold bracelet with center links pavé set with beautiful brilliant cut white diamonds that would not look out of place in the Cartier jewelry section of the store. The bracelet is opened through a clasp that is seamlessly integrated into the design of the bracelet, the inside of which is fully stamped with Cartier control marks and gold assay marks. This bracelet is not fixed to the watch itself. It is held on by two long screws that run through the lugs of the watch, meaning that if there was a desire to have it on a leather band, this is wholly possible. The bracelet length is just over six inches. Should the need for additional links be needed, we can source them at an additional cost.
Overall, this is a wonderful and very rare example of the classic Cartier icon with the added benefit of this stunning bracelet. A watch that worked for the likes of Jackie O, who wore this exact small, “mini” size. A size that is increasingly hard to find today.
