CARTIER TANK LOUIS

Maker: Cartier
Model: Tank Louis
Reference: 78086
Year: 1970's
Serial: xxx
Material: 18k Yellow Gold
Dial: White Dial Roman Numerals, blued steel sword-shaped hands
Dimensions: 23.3mm x 30mm
Crystal: Plexi
Clasp: Cartier Brown Alligator Folding 18k Clasp
Box & Papers: None

One of the most prominent names to wear the Cartier Tank was Yves Saint Laurent, the legendary French designer. Known for revolutionizing women’s fashion with bold innovations, Saint Laurent often wore his Cartier Tank Louis as an extension of his minimalist yet elegant style, embodying the same clean lines and sophisticated allure found in his collections.

Ralph Lauren, another giant in the world of fashion, is a known admirer of the Cartier Tank. His personal aesthetic, rooted in classic Americana, complements the Tank’s timeless appeal. The clean, precise lines of the Tank Louis align perfectly with the ethos of Lauren's brand—classic, versatile, and effortlessly luxurious.

Further cementing its place in pop culture, movie star Clark Gable, the iconic actor from Gone with the Wind, also wore a Cartier Tank. Gable’s powerful screen presence and timeless appeal made the Tank a fitting companion, adding a touch of refinement to his rugged yet polished persona.

Morning Coffee & Creative Brainstorm

For that early morning brainstorm over coffee, where casual sophistication meets creative flair, the Tank Louis is the ultimate finishing touch. Pair it with a crisp white Oxford shirt, sleeves rolled just enough to show off the watch, and tailored navy chinos for a clean, minimalist look. A brown leather belt and suede loafers mirror the rich texture of the Cartier brown alligator strap, while a wool cardigan or bomber jacket in a neutral tone adds a layer of casual cool. The understated luxury of the 18k yellow gold case peeking from your cuff speaks to refined taste without feeling overdone—perfect for an environment where ideas flow freely, but style still matters.

Boardroom Power Moves

As the day transitions to important meetings and business lunches, elevate your sartorial game with a sharp, tailored charcoal suit. The Cartier Tank Louis’ slim profile allows it to slide effortlessly under a crisp white dress shirt cuff, paired with a classic silk tie in deep burgundy or navy. The white dial with Roman numerals complements the sophistication of a power suit, while the blued steel hands add a subtle pop of character. Polished black Oxford shoes and a sleek leather briefcase finish the look, creating an ensemble that commands respect without overshadowing the understated elegance of your timepiece. In this setting, the Tank Louis serves as more than just a watch—it’s a statement of your enduring taste and poise under pressure.

Evening Out—Cocktails & Conversation

As the sun sets and the city lights up, the Cartier Tank Louis proves its versatility once again, pairing perfectly with a more relaxed yet refined evening ensemble. A slim-fit navy blazer worn over a cashmere turtleneck in a deep jewel tone—think emerald green or sapphire blue—creates a luxe, modern vibe. Slim, dark denim or tailored wool trousers add to the laid-back sophistication, while the brown alligator strap and 18k gold case of the watch provide a warm contrast to the cooler tones of the outfit. Complete the look with brown brogues or Chelsea boots, and let the conversation flow as effortlessly as your style.

The Cartier Tank Louis, reference 78086, is a timeless expression of understated elegance. Crafted in the 1970s, this model is housed in a refined 18k yellow gold case that measures a balanced 23.3mm by 30mm, perfectly proportioned for both comfort and style. The distinctive rectangular design of the Tank Louis embodies Cartier’s commitment to elegance and geometry, a hallmark of the brand since the model's inception in 1922.

Its classic white dial is adorned with bold Roman numerals, a signature of the brand’s aesthetic, while the blued steel sword-shaped hands provide a subtle yet striking contrast. The dial is protected by a plexiglass crystal, typical of the era, contributing to the vintage character of this piece.

The watch is complemented by a luxurious Cartier brown alligator strap, secured with an 18k yellow gold folding clasp, a detail that speaks to Cartier’s dedication to craftsmanship. Although this timepiece does not come with its original box and papers, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Cartier's design, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of horological history.

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.

The watch is fully serviced and will come with a two-year warranty from Zeitglas.