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Cartier Tank Americaine

This Cartier Tank Américaine Ref. W2600951 is a beautifully elegant take on one of Cartier’s great shapes. Made in 18k yellow gold and measuring 23 x 31 mm, it has the elongated presence of a Tank, but with the soft curve that makes the Américaine sit so well on the wrist.

Here at AWCO we think the charm is in the shape. The case is slim, warm and slightly curved, with brushed and polished yellow gold surfaces that give the watch a quiet richness from every angle. It feels unmistakably Cartier: architectural, refined and more like a piece of design than a simple dress watch.

The white dial keeps things wonderfully classic, with black Roman numerals, a chemin-de-fer minute track, blued hands and a discreet date window at three o’clock. The sapphire cabochon crown adds that small touch of Cartier theatre on the side, while the sapphire crystal keeps the dial clear and crisp.

This example is fitted to its original leather strap and closed with its original gold buckle, giving the watch a nicely complete feel. Inside is a quartz movement, which suits the elegant, low-maintenance character of this particular Tank Américaine very well. It also comes with Cartier service papers from 2026, a lovely detail for the next owner.

The Américaine arrived considerably later, in 1989, taking inspiration from the Tank Cintrée and its elongated, curved profile. This example carries that idea beautifully: formal, comfortable and full of quiet Cartier confidence.

A warm yellow gold Tank Américaine with classic Roman numerals, a curved case and all the small details we like to see. Elegant without trying too hard. Come see it for yourself at Reestraat 3, Amsterdam.

Year

2000s
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€ 8.950

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Brand Cartier
Diameter 23 x 31mm
Model Tank Americaine
Bracelet/strap: Original Leather
Reference W2600951
Buckle/clasp Original gold buckle
Year of production (circa) 2000s
Lug Width 15 mm
Material 18k Yellow gold
Set Content Cartier Service papers 2026
Crystal Sapphire
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
Dial color White
Movement Quartz

The Cartier Tank was designed by Louis Cartier in 1917. Its design was inspired by the brand new, awe-inspiring Renault FT-17 tank, used in WWI. We may consider the Tank to be a classical shape today, but back in 1917, it was a design revolution, much like the Renault that inspired it. The very first public example was given to General John Pershing in 1918.

The iconic design looks simple and elegant, but is deceptively complex at the same time. The nearly square case is flanked by two brancards, giving the watch its slender, rectangular appearance. A form that is clearly taken from the Renault tank with its tracks. A white dial, black Roman numerals, heat-blued hands, rail-road track and sapphire cabochon crown complete the typical Tank design.

Countless variations on the theme exist though. 1921 Saw the introduction of the elongated Cintrée models. In the 1970’s, in response to the Quartz crisis, Cartier launched the Must de Cartier line. These Tanks were powered by more affordable quartz or mechanical ETA calibers and the cases were plated silver, rather than 18k gold. The Tank Americaine was launched in the late 1980’s. The elongated and curved shape was reminiscent of the Cintrée, but a little less delicate in form. The more angular, modern Tank Francaise was added to the collection in 1995. More niche variants such as the Tank Chinoise and the odd “digital” Tank a Guichet are available for those with a taste for something different.

The Cartier Tank has always been a celebrity favorite. Iconic figures such as Andy Warhol, Muhammad Ali and Jackie Kennedy wore Tanks. Jackie Kennedy’s specific watch was later acquired by Kim Kardashian for a whopping $395.000,- at auction. Today, you might spot a Tank Francaise on the Dutch Queen Maxima’s wrist.

The Cartier Tank is surely one of the most iconic watch designs out there. You can easily put it side-by-side with the Rolex Submariner and AP Royal Oak as one of those genre-defining designs. It is tempting to throw the term iconic around in the watch world, but it is justified here beyond a shadow of a doubt.

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.