Cartier Vendome

No, it’s not a Tank. And yes, it deserves your attention! While Parisian jeweler to the stars Cartier may be best known in horological circles for its famed Tank watch, the French firm produced — and continues to produce — numerous other watch models that deserve equal billing for their unique and sumptuous designs.  The Louis Cartier collection, announced by Cartier Paris in 1973, constituted a redesign of the maison’s watch offerings upon its launch. Fresh takes on classics such as the Tank and Santos Dumont were accompanied by new designs, including that of pieces like the Ellipse, the Tonneau, the Ceinture, and more. This particular piece, a Vendome model, dates to the circa 1980s and features a 33mm (considered full-size) stepped 18k yellow gold case with a sapphire cabochon winding crown, a glossy white Paris dial with printed Roman indices and a matching blued-steel 'sword' handset, and a hand-cranking movement within. Appropriate for any wrist, this particular example is in lovely condition with an exceptionally clean dial. Its slender stance on the wrist is as effortlessly comfortable as it is elegant.   Everyone knows the Tank. This is your chance to own its equally compelling sibling!