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The Cartier Tank Watch: Five Amazing Examples from the Sotheby’s Archive
Sotheby’s has sold many amazing examples of the iconic Cartier Tank watch. Read on to discover a selection from the Sotheby's archive.
C artier Tank watches have long been symbols of elegance and innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship. From bold reinterpretations to limited-edition variants, our Sotheby's archive features some of the most exquisite examples of these iconic timepieces. Here we delve into five extraordinary Cartier Tank watches that stand out for their rarity, provenance and unique design elements.
Cartier Tank Asymetrique Milan Edition Reference 4285 Circa 2022, 60,960 CHF
The Cartier Tank Asymétrique Milan Edition Reference 4285 was sold in April 2024 for 60,960 CHF. It was a rare and striking version of the classic Cartier Tank watch. Released in a limited edition of only 16 pieces to celebrate the reopening of Cartier's Milan Boutique, this watch was an exclusive piece for discerning collectors. Its platinum case was accented with burgundy details and showcased the innovative spirit of Cartier, while the 30-degree twist on the traditional Cartier Tank design offered a fresh take on the classic rectangular form. The lot was numbered 15 out of 16, making it one of the most elusive iterations of the Cartier Tank Asymétrique.
The history of the Cartier Tank Asymétrique dates back to 1936, originally known as the Paralélogramme. Over the decades, this model has been revisited in various limited editions, each time with a new twist that keeps it relevant and highly coveted. This 2022 Cartier Tank Asymetrique Milan Edition paid homage to that legacy while adding a modern touch with its luxurious materials and refined craftsmanship. The watch came with its original Cartier warranty card and Certificate of Origin, further solidifying its place as a valuable collector's item.
Cartier Tank Cintrée CPCP Reference 2767 Circa 2005, 482,600 HKD
The Cartier Tank Cintrée CPCP Reference 2767 was sold in April 2023 for 482,600 HKD. The model was released in 2004 as part of a limited edition 100-piece run exclusively available in the Asian market. This particular example, numbered 86/100, featured an 18k white gold case that beautifully complemented its silvered dial. The elongated, curved design of the Cartier Tank Cintrée, first introduced in 1921, remained one of the most striking and recognizable shapes in Cartier's Tank lineup.
This model was especially notable for its second time-zone function as it was marked with Chinese numerals at the quarter hours, a feature rarely seen in Cartier Tank watches. Its pristine condition and complete set of original accessories, including the Cartier Certificate and Limited Edition Certificate, made it a highly desirable piece for collectors. The Cartier Tank Cintrée CPCP watch's rarity and unique design elements underscored the Cartier brand's ability to blend tradition with innovation, making this watch a standout in any collection.
Cartier Tank Cintree Reference A115027 Circa 2000, 444,500 HKD
The Cartier Tank Cintrée Reference A11502 was sold in October 2023 for 444,500 HKD. Another remarkable example from the Cartier Tank Cintrée line, this reference A115027 was produced around the year 2000. Crafted in platinum and fitted with an elegant salmon dial, this watch embodied the sophistication that Cartier Tank watches are known for. Limited to just 50 pieces, it was an extraordinary find for collectors seeking a piece with both aesthetic appeal and historical significance.
The combination of the distinctive rectangular case design and dual-time function made this Cartier Tank Cintrée a unique and versatile timepiece. Its inclusion of the Cartier Certificate and presentation box further enhanced its desirability. This watch stood out not only for its rarity but also for its embodiment of the Cartier brand's dedication to fine craftsmanship and attention to detail during this era.
Cartier Privée Tank Chinoise Reference 4389 Circa 2022, 40,640 CHF
The Cartier Tank Privée Chinoise was sold in May 2024 for 40,640 CHF. Launched in 2022, this Cartier Tank watch celebrated the 100th anniversary of the original Tank Chinoise design. This limited edition of 100 pieces paid homage to the Asian architectural elements that inspired the 1922 model, with horizontal brancards resembling temple entry gates. The skeletonized version, presented here in 18k yellow gold, offered a modern twist on the classic design with a geometric pattern in the movement that echoed the case's architectural theme.
Numbered 19/100, this watch was in excellent condition and came with a comprehensive set of accessories. This included the Cartier warranty card, Certificate of Origin, and presentation case. The manual-winding calibre 9627MC powered this exceptional timepiece, demonstrating Cartier's ability to blend heritage with contemporary design. The Cartier Tank Privée Chinoise was a standout piece that showcased the Cartier brand's commitment to reissuing classic designs while pushing the boundaries of modern watchmaking.
Cartier Tank à Vis Squelette CPCP Limited Edition Reference 2772 Circa 2005, 30,480 EUR
The Cartier Tank à Vis Squelette CPCP was sold in March 2024 for 30,480 EUR. This was one of the most collectible watches from the Collection Privée Cartier Paris CPCP, produced between 1998 and 2008. This numbered 05/20 limited edition model was based on the design of the Cartier Tank watch Etanche, which debuted in 1931. The distinctive four screws on the bezel and thicker profile gave the Cartier Tank à Vis a contemporary feel while staying true to the original's waterproof design.
Made in platinum, this skeletonized Cartier Tank watch was the rarest of the CPCP collection, with only 20 pieces ever produced. Its exceptional craftsmanship and unique design made it a significant addition to any serious watch collection. The watch came complete with its Cartier certificate, instruction manual, and presentation case, underscoring its value as both a collector's item and a testament to the Cartier brand's enduring legacy in haute horlogerie.
These five Cartier Tank watches from the Sotheby’s archive are prime examples of the brand’s ability to innovate while maintaining the elegance and sophistication that have made the Tank line an enduring icon. From limited editions to reissues of classic designs, each of these watches represents a unique chapter in Cartier watch history. Whether it's the bold twist of the Cartier Tank Asymétrique, the timeless elegance of the Cartier Tank Cintrée, or the architectural inspiration of the Cartier Tank Chinoise, these pieces are more than just watches – they are symbols of Cartier's legacy and a testament to the art of watchmaking.
Buying and Selling Cartier Tank Watches at Sotheby's
Sotheby's is on hand to support your next Cartier Tank purchase or sale. Across both our regular auction offerings and buy-now selection available for immediate delivery, our Sotheby's specialists handpick a wide range of superb Cartier watches with excellent provenance.
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