69 Cartier Very Rare and Fine, Tank Cintrée, Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Black Roman Numbers Dial, With Box

Estimate: €60,000 –⁠ 120,000

Model: Tank Cintrée
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1960's
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 53318 - 024 - 513
Movement N°: 1893996
Dimensions: 23 × 46 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box

The Tank Cintrée offered here stands as a testament to Cartier’s innovative design legacy. Conceived in 1921, just four years after the introduction of the original Tank, this elongated and bolder version aimed to captivate a different sector of the market. The unique curved shape of the Tank Cintrée “hugged” the wrist, offering unparalleled comfort and marking a pivotal moment in Cartier’s history where aesthetics and wearability took precedence over mere functionality. With its long, slender, and gracefully arching case, the Cintrée is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful watches made during the 20th century. Encased in an 18K yellow-gold case measuring 46 mm including the lugs, the Tank Cintrée was astonishingly large for its era. The case maintains its alluring shape and variety of finishes, with crisp hallmarks throughout. Stamped numbers on the bottom of the lugs and outside of the caseback, along with the original clasp, add to its authenticity. An elegant engraving, “P.S.,” graces the caseback, hinting at the initials of a previous owner and adding a touch of intrigue. This vintage Cartier furthermore has a remarkable dial: the original lacquer has aged gracefully, with minor signs and is further signed “Paris” at the 6 o’clock position. The original glass, blued hands, and faceted cabochon in the eight-sided crown—features characteristic of Cartier pieces from the 1960s and 1970s—are still present, further confirming the watch’s authenticity. Cartier required an exceptionally thin movement to accommodate the challenging case shape, and this example features the movement signed Cartier, possibly the most coveted among connoisseurs. The expansive dial and case combine straight lines, sensual curves, and crisp angles, resulting in a “modern” wristwatch with a design far ahead of its time, so much so, in fact, that the design has spawned multiple re-editions, making the present watch a remarkable addition for any collection.