Cartier Tank Louis 'PARIS' Dial 18K Yellow Gold Beads of Rice Bracelet 78086
After 1917, Cartier saw a surge in interest for unique watches, and more and more Cartier Tank models were born, building on the underlying design philosophy that made the Tank an initial success in the 1910s. The Tank Cintrée was introduced in 1921, the Louis and Chinoise in 1922, the Basculante in 1933, the Asymetrique in 1936, and so on.
While each model has its own unique personality, the Tank Louis is the quintessential configuration, and is truly the face of the Tank collection. The rounded, polished brancards, blue sapphire cabochon, beautiful Roman numerals, 'railroad' minute track, and blued steel hands have not only come to personify the Tank, but Cartier’s identity as a watchmaker. This watch became the symbol of watchmaking in the 1920s and 1930s, and perfectly captures the era’s approach to changing style and fashion.
The example that we have here is one of those pieces. Dating to the mid-1960s, it features an excellent rectangular case with the classic 23mm x 31mm proportions. It comes to us having been very lightly previously polished retaining clear and present hallmarks and engravings throughout. It shows light signs of wear with no blemishes or damage of note. The white enamel 'Paris' signed dial inside is also excellent, seemingly absent of the common fracturing and only faint stippling present when inspected with a loupe. The white surface remains clean, with printed black 'Roman' numeral indices we well as a 'chemin de fer' minute track and an always beautiful blued-steel 'sword' handset — which is complimented that ubiquitous blue sapphire cabochon crown.
Information:
Pre-owned: Cartier Tank Louis 'PARIS' Dial 18K Yellow Gold Beads of Rice Bracelet 78086
Reference: 78086
Circa: 1970's
Dial: Enamel
Bracelet: 18k YG Beads of Rice Bracelet with signed deployant clasp
Case: 23mm x 31mm lug to lug - 18K Yellow Gold
Movement: Cartier caliber 78-1 - Manual Wind
Functions: HM
Box and Papers: No box or papers - watch only
Crystal: Acrylic
Bracelet size: 7.25”
Condition:
Case has light micro wear with nothing notable. Bracelet has light micro wear with nothing notable. Dial has light cracking. Hands have light wear. Crystal has minimal wear. Watch runs
History of Cartier
Cartier, founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, began as a jewelry workshop that quickly gained recognition among French aristocracy. Under the leadership of Alfred Cartier, the company expanded into watchmaking, with a pivotal moment occurring in 1904 when Louis Cartier created the Santos Dumont, the world's first modern men's wristwatch, for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.
Throughout the 20th century, Cartier continued to innovate in watch design, introducing iconic timepieces like the Tank in 1918, inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank. The company's watches became known for blending functionality with artistic elements, incorporating Art Deco influences and precious materials. Today, as part of the Richemont Group, Cartier remains a leader in luxury watchmaking, continuing to produce exquisite timepieces that combine tradition with contemporary design, from the classic Tank to the modern Pasha.
