Cartier Tank Française

The Cartier Tank Française was my first ever luxury watch, a gift I gave to myself upon turning 31, the year I launched Dimepiece. It felt so timeless and elegant, and the steel bracelet set it apart from the leather-strapped Tank I was so used to seeing. I also love the near-industrial severity of the shape – it truly feels like a piece of architecture. No wonder why it was my top choice (and Princess Diana's!). This example is identical to mine – meaning it's the smallest version, made with steel (versus the white gold, larger example we have listed on the site). 

THE NITTY GRITTY

DATE OF BIRTH: C.1990’s

MATERIAL: Stainless steel

SIZE: 20mm x 32mm

MOVEMENT: Quartz

CONDITION: Excellent

BOX/PAPERS: Yes/Yes

The Française was the last major introduction into the iconic Cartier Tank line. This model, released in 1996 to be more of a bracelet watch than simply a watch, took its design cues from French architecture. The bracelet on this model is thicker and integrates more seamlessly into the case, a distinction from its predecessors – the Tank Americaine, launched in 1989, and the Tank Louis introduced all the way back in 1922.

The watch retains all the details that Cartier lovers flock to the brand for – the Roman numeral dial with a chemin de fer minute track, the hidden signature, this time at the eleven o’clock position, sword blued steel hands and a blue sapphire set winding crown. All of the details and iconic design cues line up for one of the most identifiable and desirable watches made. 

The beautifully made bracelet seamlessly joins the case and is opened through a butterfly clasp on the back center. The screw back caseback is also fully signed with the unique Cartier serial number and model number. The original protective caseback sticker is present. The overall condition of the watch is very good. There are some light signs of wear, but overall it is very clean and remains unpolished.

Essentially an evolution from the DNA of Cartier’s most iconic watch, this model, for many, remains a coveted version of the classic. This has been, and really continues to be a ‘must have’ watch in the Cartier line.