Cartier Tank Francaise

Cartier is responsible for some of the most recognizable and successful wristwatches in the history of modern horology. The definitive expert on watch design, the French maison has always been a leader in challenging conventional approaches to watchmaking while pioneering new styling as a fixture in the broader fashion world. Few watches have played a larger role in solidifying this brand identity than the Tank. Undoubtedly the most iconic watch in Cartier’s history and conceived based on a simple idea, it’s evolved to take myriad forms over the years, with over a dozen sub-designs that each has its own identity and presence. After the release of the Tank, the watch space was changed forever. Introduced in 1917 based on the conception of Louis Cartier, the great grandson of Cartier’s founder, the Tank took inspiration from a French military tank from the First World War— the Renault FT-17. The look of the Tank was striking and revolutionary— rectangular and unconventional for the period, the Tank was also one of the earliest wrist watches to be popularly accepted by the broader fashion space. After 1917, Cartier saw a surge in interest in its 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. Inspired by the Tank Normale, the 1996 Tank Française returned to a squarer case design while adopting a more modern presence with a link bracelet. Most would agree that the Française is also quite a bit sportier than the other Tanks in the collections. This sportier presence means that it can work well as an everyday offering in both casual and dressier environments. Its bracelet, made to look like the tracks of a tank, also calls upon the heritage of the greater collection. This particular Tank Française is quite special, executed in 18K yellow gold with extensive gem setting across the case and bracelet. The body of the bracelet, and the vertical brancards of the case are gem set from the factory, making this piece one of the most iced out variants of the Française made available directly from Cartier’s catalog. The dial of this Française features a chemin de fer minutes track, blued steel hands, and classic Cartier black Roman numerals. The piece is completed with a sapphire crystal and octagonal crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon. Paired with an equally stunning multi-link 18K yellow gold bracelet with matching gem setting goodness, this piece is simply too good to pass up. If dabbling with Cartier's more zestier, asymmetrical offerings isn't your jam, then why not stick with a classic that has a bit more shine to it. Bring some sunnies if you decide to come check this piece out in person!