Cartier

In 1922, Cartier introduced the original Tank Chinoise, drawing inspiration from its resemblance to Asian architectural elements. Specifically, the horizontal brancards mirrored the silhouette of entry gates found in many Asian temples.

As part of the Cartier Privé collection, dedicated to reissuing classic designs at the highest standards, 2022 saw the launch of limited edition Privé Tank Chinoise models to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the design.

These paid homage to the original model while offering a fresh and intriguing update for contemporary collectors. The skeletonized version was available in yellow gold, platinum, including a diamond-set version. Each of the 2022 Privé watches boasts a slightly elongated rectangular case, departing from the traditional square design.

This exceptional piece is powered by the manual winding calibre 9627MC. Unlike the usual skeletonized Cartier, the bridges are not designed in the shape of Roman indexes. Instead, they were used to create a geometric pattern in a Chinese style. As such, it installs a dialogue between the case and the movement, echoing each other and re-enforcing the essence of the original design.

Interestingly, the platinum version has its movement decorated with blue and burgundy lacquer with smooth transitions, while the yellow gold version features a simpler black and red decoration that is repeated on the horizontal brancards of the case. The platinum version has the signature ruby red cabochon instead of the usual sapphire one.

The Cartier pieces crafted in platinum have always been regarded as the finest and chicest production of the Maison. Connoisseurs consider them as a distinct category and a collection theme in its own right.

This particular piece, numbered 26 out of 100, is encased in platinum and is offered in excellent condition, it comes complete with its full suite of accessories.