A superb vintage Must de Cartier Tank in the desirable larger 23 x 30mm case size, with one of the most dramatically aged black dials I have seen.
The original black lacquer dial has developed extensive natural “spidering” across its surface. Viewed straight on it remains wonderfully dark and understated, but as light moves across the dial, the network of fine crackling suddenly comes alive. It is extraordinary ageing and gives the watch a completely individual appearance.
Despite the extensive spidering, the dial remains beautifully legible, retaining its gilt “must de Cartier” signature, Cartier double-C motif, SWISS designation and simple gold-tone hands.
The classic rectangular case measures approximately 23mm across x 30mm long, excluding the crown. This is the larger vintage Must Tank size, originally sold as a gentleman’s watch and now particularly wearable as a unisex piece.
The case is Cartier’s characteristic vermeil construction, with gold plating over sterling silver. Gold coverage remains very good overall, particularly considering its age. There are light surface marks and some small areas of plate wear around the lugs, but the watch presents extremely well.
The beaded Cartier-style crown is finished with the familiar blue cabochon, providing a beautiful contrast against the gold case and black dial.
Inside is a manually wound mechanical movement, giving this the traditional mechanical character that suits the Tank perfectly.
It is fitted to a black leather strap, continuing the wonderfully simple black-and-gold aesthetic.
The real attraction, however, is unquestionably the dial. This is not a watch that has simply survived its age; its age has become its defining feature. The heavily crackled black lacquer changes dramatically according to the light and gives the watch a depth and texture impossible to reproduce artificially.
An exceptionally characterful larger-size Must de Cartier Tank and a beautiful example of why naturally aged black lacquer Cartier dials have become so collectible.
A superb vintage Must de Cartier Tank in the desirable larger 23 x 30mm case size, with one of the most dramatically aged black dials I have seen.
The original black lacquer dial has developed extensive natural “spidering” across its surface. Viewed straight on it remains wonderfully dark and understated, but as light moves across the dial, the network of fine crackling suddenly comes alive. It is extraordinary ageing and gives the watch a completely individual appearance.
Despite the extensive spidering, the dial remains beautifully legible, retaining its gilt “must de Cartier” signature, Cartier double-C motif, SWISS designation and simple gold-tone hands.
The classic rectangular case measures approximately 23mm across x 30mm long, excluding the crown. This is the larger vintage Must Tank size, originally sold as a gentleman’s watch and now particularly wearable as a unisex piece.
The case is Cartier’s characteristic vermeil construction, with gold plating over sterling silver. Gold coverage remains very good overall, particularly considering its age. There are light surface marks and some small areas of plate wear around the lugs, but the watch presents extremely well.
The beaded Cartier-style crown is finished with the familiar blue cabochon, providing a beautiful contrast against the gold case and black dial.
Inside is a manually wound mechanical movement, giving this the traditional mechanical character that suits the Tank perfectly.
It is fitted to a black leather strap, continuing the wonderfully simple black-and-gold aesthetic.
The real attraction, however, is unquestionably the dial. This is not a watch that has simply survived its age; its age has become its defining feature. The heavily crackled black lacquer changes dramatically according to the light and gives the watch a depth and texture impossible to reproduce artificially.
An exceptionally characterful larger-size Must de Cartier Tank and a beautiful example of why naturally aged black lacquer Cartier dials have become so collectible.
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