Cartier Tank Americaine Automatic Diamonds

The Cartier Tank Americaine is quite possibly the least understood model in Cartier's lineup. Introduced in 1989, it is, in many ways, a modern update to the classic Cintrée. With an elongated case featuring a gently curved caseback, the collection was designed from the start to be a larger watch to suit American tastes. Initially launched exclusively with quartz movements, it has expanded in the past decades to include a variety of mechanical variants as well as sizes, case materials, and complications that offers something appealing to a wide range of collectors.  This particular example is a beautiful Reference WB710010-2504 cased in 18K rose gold, and features the timeless satin silver guilloché dial with printed 'Roman' indices upon which Cartier was built. Measuring 41.6 x 22.6 mm and 9.6mm tall, its brancards feature dual rows of 'brilliant-cut' diamonds, while a diamond-set cabochon crown and a sapphire crystal complete the picture of a supremely elegant case.  The silver guilloché dial — fitted with an inner 'railroad' minute track, a blued steel 'sword' handset, and a date window above 6 o'clock — is a straightforward picture of pure class. Meanwhile, an automatic Calibre 077 movement and a stunning scale-link bracelet in 18K rose gold with a hidden butterfly clasp seal the deal. Forget about the Tank Louis for a moment, and spring for something with a touch of sparkle!