Cartier Tank Française Chrono 2303

The Cartier Tank was released way back in 1917 and is one of the longest-running series in the watch world. Created by Louis Cartier himself, the often-imitated rectangular design pays homage to the Renault FT-17 tank used in the first world war and is one that has endured for over a century. Early Tank models were equipped with a hand-wound movement designed by LeCoultre and were produced in small numbers (less than 6,000 between 1917 and 1969), making pre-1970’s references very rare finds on the vintage market. The modern Tank has evolved and split off into several sub-series including the Tank Francaise and Tank Americaine, but at the core of the collection remains the Tank Solo.

Specifications:

Model: Tank Française
Reference: 2303
Movement: 25-jewel Cal.212P quartz
Dial: White, black Roman numerals, secret signature at 10, black outer 1/5th second divisions, subsidiary dials at 4, 7 and 12 for date, 30 minute and 12 hour recording, blued steel sword hands, centre chronograph hand
Case: Brushed and polished rectangular, back secured by 4 screws, cabochon set crown flanked by twin buttons
Bracelet: Brushed and polished stainless steel
Clasp: Signed double folding clasp