| Brand | Cartier |
|---|---|
| Model | |
| Reference | 81078 |
| Year of production (circa) | 1985 |
| Material | 18k Yellow gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Dial color | White |
| Movement | Quartz |
| Diameter | 20 x 27 mm |
| Bracelet/strap: | Leather |
| Buckle/clasp | Aftermarket plated |
| Lug Width | 17 mm |
| Set Content | Service papers 2022 |
A-Cartier
Cartier Tank ‘Normale’
Timeless elegance!
The Cartier Tank Normale is very similar to other Tanks but fitted with flattened sides to its case. In that sense, it resembles the old Renault Tank it was inspired by even better than the regular Tank does.
This little beauty is fitted with a bright white lacquered dial with all the familiar Cartier ingredients: Roman numerals, blued hands, and railroad track. It is quite simply an iconic classic. Or is it a classical icon? And, to make things even better, it comes with 2022 Cartier service papers.
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Details
Backstory
Shipping
Brand
Cartier
Diameter
20 x 27 mm
Model
Tank Normale
Bracelet/strap:
Leather
Reference
81078
Buckle/clasp
Aftermarket plated
Year of production (circa)
1985
Lug Width
17 mm
Material
18k Yellow gold
Set Content
Service papers 2022
Crystal
Sapphire
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Dial color
White
Movement
Quartz
The Cartier Tank was designed by Louis Cartier in 1917. Its design was inspired by the brand new, awe-inspiring Renault FT-17 tank, used in WWI. We may consider the Tank to be a classical shape today, but back in 1917, it was a design revolution, much like the Renault that inspired it. The very first public example was given to General John Pershing in 1918.
The iconic design looks simple and elegant, but is deceptively complex at the same time. The nearly square case is flanked by two brancards, giving the watch its slender, rectangular appearance. A form that is clearly taken from the Renault tank with its tracks. A white dial, black Roman numerals, heat-blued hands, rail-road track and sapphire cabochon crown complete the typical Tank design.
Countless variations on the theme exist though. 1921 Saw the introduction of the elongated Cintrée models. In the 1970’s, in response to the Quartz crisis, Cartier launched the Must de Cartier line. These Tanks were powered by more affordable quartz or mechanical ETA calibers and the cases were plated silver, rather than 18k gold. The Tank Americaine was launched in the late 1980’s. The elongated and curved shape was reminiscent of the Cintrée, but a little less delicate in form. The more angular, modern Tank Francaise was added to the collection in 1995. More niche variants such as the Tank Chinoise and the odd “digital” Tank a Guichet are available for those with a taste for something different.
The Cartier Tank has always been a celebrity favorite. Iconic figures such as Andy Warhol, Muhammad Ali and Jackie Kennedy wore Tanks. Jackie Kennedy’s specific watch was later acquired by Kim Kardashian for a whopping $395.000,- at auction. Today, you might spot a Tank Francaise on the Dutch Queen Maxima’s wrist.
The Cartier Tank is surely one of the most iconic watch designs out there. You can easily put it side-by-side with the Rolex Submariner and AP Royal Oak as one of those genre-defining designs. It is tempting to throw the term iconic around in the watch world, but it is justified here beyond a shadow of a doubt.
At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.
We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.
Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.