Cartier Tank Louis "PARIS" dial - 11.000€

The Cartier Tank Louis is one of the most iconic wristwatches ever created, embodying timeless elegance and refined design. Its story begins in 1917, during the First World War, when Louis Cartier, the grandson of Cartier's founder, was inspired by the shape of French military tanks seen on the Western Front. The result was a groundbreaking design that departed from the round cases of the time, introducing a rectangular watch with bold, clean lines and perfectly balanced proportions.

The first Tank watch was presented as a gift to General John Pershing of the American Expeditionary Forces in 1918. In 1922, Cartier refined the original design to create the Tank Louis Cartier, distinguished by its softened lugs, more elongated case, and refined aesthetics. It quickly became a symbol of luxury and sophistication, appealing to artists, royals, and intellectuals alike.

Over the decades, the Tank Louis Cartier has been worn by cultural icons such as Andy Warhol, Princess Diana, and Yves Saint Laurent. Its minimalist design; with Roman numerals, a chemin-de-fer minute track, blued steel hands, and a sapphire cabochon crown, has remained largely unchanged, proving its enduring appeal.

Though the Tank Louis has seen variations in materials and movements, it continues to represent Cartier’s commitment to classic elegance and artisanal craftsmanship. Today, it stands not only as a piece of fine watchmaking but also as a cultural and historical artifact, embodying over a century of style and innovation.