Cartier Tank Americaine

The Cartier Tank Americaine is quite possibly the least understood model in Cartier's lineup. Introduced in 1989 under Richemeont group ownership, it is in many ways a modern update to the classic Cintrée model. With an elongated case featuring a gently curved case back, the Americaine line was designed from the start to be a larger watch to suit American tastes. Initially launched exclusively with quartz movements, the line has expanded in the past decades to include a variety of mechanical variants as well as sizes, case materials, and complications that put it all over the map in terms of value.  This particular example, a reference 2489, features a 19mm x 34mm 18K white gold case set with factory diamonds, a curved sapphire crystal, a white dial with printed 'Roman' indices and a matching blued-steel 'sword' handset, and Cartier's ubiquitous cabochon winding crown - this time set with a factory diamond. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this Americaine makes for a shockingly good value in precious metal dress watches. If you're Cartier-curious but the Tank Louis or the Santos don't speak to you, the Tank Americaine might just be the watch for you!