Cartier Tank

The History of Cartier Watches

Cartier began as a Parisian watchmaking company in 1847 when Louis-Francois Cartier took over his master’s workshop. He successfully expanded the reach of his business, resulting in the opening of an iconic boutique in 1859 in central Paris catering to elite high-society clientele. Through continued releases of luxury timepieces and jewelry, Cartier quickly cemented its position as a leader in the industry.

After the success of Louis-Francois, his son, Alfred Cartier, took over the business in 1874. Alfred focused on expanding Cartier’s reach throughout Europe, spreading its popularity and among high-society clientele, including royalty and other celebrities of the era. Following this expansion, his three sons took over the family business, propelling Cartier from a European powerhouse to a global leader in luxury jewelry, creating the international success that it is today.

The Cartier Tank Collection

While Cartier may have been originally best known for its classic jewelry and elevated timepieces, it quickly made a name for itself in innovative watchmaking. One key piece to this amazing evolution came with the introduction of their now-iconic Cartier Tank watch model.

First introduced in 1919, the Cartier Tank Collection was a game-changing addition to their ever-growing collections of luxury watches . This model was designed to pay tribute to the power and precision of a military-grade tank, with signature details mimicking various aspects of this armored vehicle. What began as one initial collection, the Tank Louis Cartier , quickly expanded into an empire that is now one of the most valuable pieces in the extensive Cartier archives.

Each Cartier Tank watch model features a bold angular design, square or rectangular in shape. Thick vertical case sides, known as ‘brancards,’ perfectly frame a center dial while also securely holding the watches’ signature lugs. This style of Cartier watch also includes the iconic Roman Numeral hour markers that are found in many, if not all, Cartier watch models. Each collection of Cartier Tank models embraces these initial design signatures while introducing new features and innovations that elevate each new-to-market model.

Our Favorite Used Cartier Tank Watch Models

For fans of luxury Cartier Tank watches, there are many used and pre-owned Cartier watches available on the market to choose from. Here are some of our favorite models to consider adding to your personal collection:

The Cartier Tank Normale Watch

These stylish Cartier watches were the first edition of this now-iconic design, with a game-changing square face, seamless bracards, and the signature intricate details of Cartier watchmaking experts.

The Tank Louis Cartier Watch

The second generation of Cartier tank watches, introduced in 1922, this stylish model featured a more rectangular face with rounded bracards and a slightly longer silhouette.

The Cartier Tank Cintrée

Another early iteration of the Cartier Tank watch was the Cartier Tank Cintrée, released in 1921, featuring a dramatic rounded case with the signature details of the original Tank Normale watch for a more statement-making appearance.

The Must de Cartier Tank Watch

This beautiful Cartier Tank watch model was first introduced in 1977 as a more affordable version of the luxury design. It featured a vermeil case rather than solid gold or platinum as well as quartz movements for a more accessible price point.

The Cartier Tank Américaine Watch

A new introduction to the Cartier collections in 1989, the Tank Américane was a modern update to the iconic Tank Cintrée watch. This stylish luxury watch featured an elongated case with a flat case back rather than the traditional curved style.

The Cartier Tank Francaise Watch

Brought to market in 1995, the Cartier Tank Francaise Watch offered a more contemporary interpretation of this iconic style. This new generation of Tank watches featured a sporty chain-link bracelet inspired by the tracks left by military tanks.

The Cartier Tank Anglaise Watch

A recent addition to the Cartier Tank archives, the Cartier Tank Anglaise watch, also known as the ‘English Tank,’ was introduced in the early 2000’s to pay tribute to the three flagship stores of Cartier in New York, Paris and London.

The Cartier Tank Solo Watch

A more accessible version of the iconic Tank Louis Cartier Watch, the Cartier Tank Solo Watch was introduced in 2004, featured a thicker case with more affordable stainless steel and quartz movements.

The Cartier Tank MC Watch

Introduced in 2013, the Cartier Tank collections, and Cartier Tank MC Watch was, taking its name from ‘Manufacture Cartier’ to speak to its in-house movement. This model also features a running sub-second’s dial, a new addition to the Cartier Tank watch aesthetic.

Cartier Tank Watch Repair Services at Gray & Sons

Gray & Sons Jewelers specializes in Cartier Tank watch repair. Cartier Tank watches contain dozens of tiny moving parts all working in synchronicity to keep and display accurate time. When one of those parts isn’t working properly, it can disrupt the entire internal system. Diagnosing and repairing your watch properly should only be handled by a certified master watchmaker like the watchmakers at Gray & Sons.

Both new and used Cartier Tank watches require periodic cleaning and an overhaul of the movement to make sure that the watch lasts for decades to come. Regular cleaning is essential for the longevity of Cartier watches, with recommended servicing every 3 to 5 years. At Gray & Sons, we’re more than happy to assist with any necessary cleanings or repairs needed to keep your cherished Cartier Tank watch in the most pristine working condition.

Gray & Sons Jewelers is an independent watch service center in the Miami area. Our Swiss-trained certified watchmakers specialized in Cartier Tank watch repair and polishing, utilizing highly professional tools, parts, and equipment. We can restore your watch’s appearance to its near-original state, ensuring it looks and functions flawlessly. For more information on the Cartier watch repair and services that we provide, please reach out to us anytime, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Why Trust Gray & Sons

Pre-owned and used Cartier Tank watches are a wonderful investment for the present and the future, but only if you are purchasing from and use the repair services of a reputable source. At Gray & Sons, we began as a brick-and-mortar shop in 1980 before rapidly expanding digitally through our website, internet platforms, and world-class print and digital catalog. We have worked to build our stellar reputation in both the international, national and local industry in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beaches, Florida areas, Miami Beach, West Palm Beach, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables, Aventura, Sunny Isles, and more. We take pride in our accomplishments, including being awarded an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and achieving good standing with the International Watch & Jewelry Guild. Our commitment to excellence has made us a world leader in dealing with used-certified pre-owned luxury watches and estate jewelry. If you’re looking for a trustworthy, reputable, and professional source for purchasing pre-owned jewelry, sourcing luxury watches, or servicing your treasured pieces, look no further than Gray & Sons.