The timepiece, with the iconic design of the Tank Américaine model first introduced in 1988, features a truly eye-catching dial – limited to 120 pieces and reserved for European customers.
If you think the watch and the concept of a limited customer base sound familiar, you’re right – at least almost. To mark the 40th anniversary of The Cartier Collection – a collection of jewellery, watches and accessories launched in 1973 that exemplifies the brand’s style – the Tank Louis Cartier Platinum Limited Edition was unveiled: also a limited European version with a platinum case.
The design of the dial will be particularly memorable, which now also adorns the new Europe-only version of the Platinum Tank Américaine in a modified form. In an Art Deco look – a typical Cartier style – it features a graphic tone-on-tone pattern in fresh navy blue and icy grey-blue. The surprising thing about it is that it appears almost three-dimensional and faceted, showing a different face depending on how the light falls on it.
This is made possible by modern laser engraving and PVD treatment, which creates the exciting geometric effect with iridescent blue tones. The effect can unfold to its full potential because the designers have placed only two numbers – XII and VI – on the dial.
The automatic 1899 MC manufacture calibre ensures precise timekeeping. It was developed in 2019 specifically for the large Tank Américaine model and slim cases and offers a power reserve of 38 hours. Incidentally, the designation 1899 MC refers to the year in which the famous Cartier boutique at 13 Rue de la Paix in Paris, which still exists today, was opened.
It is protected up to a pressure of three bar by the larger case format of the Tank Américaine, which measures 44.4 x 24.4 millimetres. The platinum case is engraved with ‘Limited Edition 120 Pieces’ on the back. The blue alligator leather strap ensures a secure fit on the wrist. Available in Cartier boutiques, the Europe-only version of the Tank Américaine costs €26,500 in Germany.
