Introduced: 1917 (prototype), publicly released in 1919
Purpose / Inspiration: The Cartier Tank was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank used during World War I—specifically, its top-down view with side treads and a central turret. Louis Cartier took that brutal machinery and turned it into pure elegance. The result: a rectangular watch with straight brancards (case sides), clean lines, and balance. It redefined wristwatch design—and still does.
Designer: Louis Cartier himself—dedicated the first prototype to General John Pershing of the U.S. Army
Case size: Varies widely by model—from the petite Tank Must to larger Tank MC and Tank Américaine (~22mm to ~46mm lug-to-lug)
Case options: Stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum, two-tone; limited editions in lacquer, skeleton, or full pavé diamond
Powered by quartz (Tank Must, Solo), manual wind (Tank Louis, Normale), and in-house automatic movements (1847 MC in MC & Française)
Bezel: Rectangular or slightly curved, with integrated vertical lugs (brancards); minimalist with no rotating parts
Dial options: Silvered opaline, lacquer, skeleton, or enamel; classic Roman numerals, railroad minute track, and blued sword hands
Water resistance: 30m on most models—built for elegance, not diving
Bracelet: Leather strap, metal bracelet (Française/Anglaise), or integrated designs depending on variant
Still in production, in multiple variations: Tank Must, Louis, Américaine, Française, Chinoise, Anglaise, MC, Normale
Why it matters: The Tank isn’t just Cartier’s most iconic watch—it’s one of the most important watches in history. Worn by everyone from Jackie Kennedy to Muhammad Ali, it’s less of a watch and more of a design icon.
The Watch That Defined Elegance: Rectangular, refined, and relentlessly modern
Lines With Legacy: Inspired by war—designed for peace
Roman Numerals, Eternal Style: A dial so classic it never looks dated
Over 100 Years in Style: Not many watches can say that—and still look fresh