CARTIER TANK AMERICAINE

Maker: Cartier
Model: Tank Américaine
Reference: 1730
Year: 1990's
Serial: xxx
Material: 18k Gold
Dial: White Dial Roman Numerals
Dimensions: 26 x 42 mm
Crystal: Sapphire
Clasp: Cartier Buckle
Box & Papers: None

In the hushed corridors of Parisian ateliers, where artisans' whispers intertwine with the soft chime of horological instruments, a legend was born. The year was 1917, and amidst the tumult of a world at war, Louis Cartier found inspiration in the unlikeliest of places—a military tank. This symbol of resilience and strength became the muse for what would become an enduring icon: the Cartier Tank watch. 

Fast forward to the 1990s, a decade marked by a renaissance of elegance and innovation. Cartier unveiled the Tank Américaine, a timepiece that paid homage to its heritage while embracing contemporary sophistication. The elongated case, reminiscent of its predecessor, the Tank Cintrée, now boasted a bolder curvature, hugging the wrist with unparalleled grace. Its 18k yellow gold frame encapsulated a white dial adorned with Roman numerals, a subtle nod to classical antiquity. The blue steel hands glided over the face, echoing the serenity of a cloudless Parisian sky.

This particular model, the reference 1730, housed a quartz movement, ensuring precision befitting its lineage. Measuring 26 x 42 mm, it struck a harmonious balance between presence and understatement, making it a versatile companion for both gala evenings and intimate rendezvous. The sapphire crystal shielded its face, a testament to Cartier's commitment to durability without compromising on elegance. Completing the ensemble was the Cartier buckle, a signature flourish that spoke of meticulous craftsmanship.

The Tank Américaine's allure transcended gender and generation, adorning the wrists of luminaries who defined their eras. Princess Diana, with her innate grace and poise, often paired her ensembles with the Tank, a silent witness to her journey from nursery visits to royal banquets. Muhammad Ali, the titan of the boxing world, found in the Tank a reflection of his own complexity—strength intertwined with elegance. Andy Warhol, the maestro of pop art, wore his Tank not for timekeeping but as a statement piece, a canvas reflecting his avant-garde philosophy. 

To wear the Tank Américaine is to partake in a legacy, to embrace a design that has withstood the vicissitudes of fashion and time. It's more than a watch; it's a narrative—a story of inspiration drawn from the unlikeliest of sources, transformed into an emblem of enduring style.

Morning Meeting: The Power of Subtle Authority

Outfit: Tailored navy double-breasted suit, crisp white shirt, silk tie, and monk-strap shoes.

In a world where first impressions matter, nothing speaks of understated authority like the Cartier Tank Américainepeeking from beneath the cuff of a tailored double-breasted suit. The warm glow of 18k gold against a navy wool fabriccreates an effortless harmony—luxurious yet never ostentatious. The classic Roman numeral dial lends a quiet nod to tradition, while the sleek 26 x 42mm case ensures a streamlined, modern presence.

Pairing it with monk-strap shoes and a silk tie adds just enough personality without disrupting the refined balance. Whether you're closing deals or navigating high-stakes conversations, the Tank Américaine is the finishing touch that signals composure and confidence.

Afternoon Café: Effortless Parisian Chic

Outfit: Cashmere crewneck sweater, relaxed linen trousers, and minimalist leather sneakers.

The Tank Américaine doesn’t need a formal setting to shine—it thrives in effortless, casual elegance. For a relaxed afternoon at a favorite Left Bank café or an art gallery stroll, pair it with a soft cashmere crewneck sweater in earthy tones and tailored linen trousers. The smooth contours of the gold case reflect the golden hour light, while the Cartier buckle subtly peeks from the wrist, adding a whisper of refinement.

Instead of over-accessorizing, let the watch take center stage. A minimalist approach—clean lines, neutral colors, and timeless silhouettes—allows the Tank Américaine to feel organically woven into your daily style, rather than an accessory that demands attention.

Evening Soirée: A Touch of Gatsby-Era Glamour

Outfit: Midnight velvet dinner jacket, pleated tuxedo shirt, bow tie, and patent leather loafers.

A black-tie evening calls for a timepiece that exudes both history and charisma, and few watches do it as elegantly as the Cartier Tank Américaine. Inspired by the art deco era, its elongated case pairs effortlessly with a midnight velvet dinner jacket, evoking the kind of old-world sophistication that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Fitzgerald novel.

Worn with a pleated tuxedo shirt and bow tie, the watch provides a compelling contrast—where the richness of velvet meets the sleek gold case and sapphire crystal. It’s not just a timepiece for checking the hour between champagne toasts; it’s a piece of conversation, a bridge between generations of timeless style.

Few watches capture the effortless refinement of the Cartier Tank Américaine quite like this example from the 1990s. Introduced as a more elongated and subtly curved evolution of the classic Tank, the Américaine retains the unmistakable Cartier aesthetic while embracing a more contemporary silhouette.

A Case with Timeless Elegance
Crafted from solid 18k yellow gold, the case remains in excellent condition, exhibiting only light signs of wear consistent with careful ownership. The polished surfaces retain a rich luster, accentuating the watch’s distinctive curved profile—a design choice that enhances comfort on the wrist. Measuring 26mm across and 42mm in length, the proportions strike a perfect balance between vintage sensibility and modern presence. The sapphire crystal remains crisp and clear, providing a flawless view of the dial beneath.

A Classic Cartier Dial
The white dial, adorned with Cartier’s signature black Roman numerals, exudes timeless sophistication. The blued steel sword hands provide a subtle yet striking contrast, while the railroad minute track encircling the dial nods to traditional watchmaking. The print remains deep and precise, with no signs of fading, ensuring this dial retains its original character.

Precision in Motion
Beneath the caseback beats a Cartier-signed quartz movement, offering reliable and fuss-free timekeeping. The movement has been recently checked and is performing as expected, reflecting Cartier’s commitment to precision and longevity.

A Strap to Match Its Heritage
Paired with a Cartier-signed buckle, this Tank Américaine is fitted with a high-quality leather strap, complementing the warmth of the gold case. Though not original to the watch, it provides both comfort and a refined finishing touch.

An Icon for the Discerning Collector
With no original box or papers, this watch stands on its own merits—its elegant proportions, beautifully preserved case, and classic Cartier detailing making it a compelling choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether worn as an everyday companion or a refined dress piece, this Tank Américaine encapsulates Cartier’s enduring vision of understated luxury.

The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.

If you desire a complete service, we can provide it at an additional cost, with a warranty of at least one year for precision and accuracy (not for waterproofness).