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Cartier Tank Louis pm

In the world of Amsterdam Watch Company, we celebrate icons that have effortlessly stood the test of time, and this Cartier Tank Louis Cartier PM from 1990, featuring its original gold buckle, is a stunning example.

The origins of this watch take us back to the trenches of World War I. In 1917, Louis Cartier was inspired by the Renault FT-17, the first tank with a rotating turret and a very distinctive track system. When you look at the tank’s tracks from above, you immediately recognize the pattern of two parallel lines with crossbars on the dial.

The meaning of the Railway Track.
This pattern, known in the watch world as the ‘railway’ minute track, was the perfect way for Cartier to subtly incorporate its military origins into the design. At a time when the wristwatch was still a novelty, this track offered the technical precision associated with railway clocks. By placing the minutes within a closed frame, the wearer could read the time much more quickly and accurately. But when you look down at this tank’s tracks, you’ll immediately recognize the pattern of the two parallel lines with cross-stripes on the dial.
This particular example from 1990 embodies that historical vision with modern refinement:
The case: Crafted from solid 18-karat yellow gold with the characteristic vertical sidebars, the “brancards,” which symbolize the sides of the tank and flow seamlessly into the legs.
The dial: A classic white dial features the famous black Roman numerals and the iconic blue steel sword-shaped hands.
The size: With its modest dimensions of 20 x 20 mm (Petit Modèle), this watch is a model of understated elegance.
Originality: The watch is powered by the ultra-precise Caliber Q157 and features the original gold buckle.

The timeless appeal of the Tank Louis Cartier is underscored by the many style icons that wear it. For example, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has been wearing a yellow gold Tank Louis with a black strap since her engagement, confirming its status as the ultimate piece of jewelry for the modern woman.
At Amsterdam Watch Company on Reestraat, we see this 1990 Tank as a tangible bridge between the revolutionary technology of 1917 and the timeless elegance of today.

Year

1990
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€ 7.250

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Brand Cartier
Diameter 20 x 20 mm
Model Tank Louis, PM
Bracelet/strap: Leather
Year of production (circa) 1990
Buckle/clasp Original gold buckle
Material 18k Yellow gold
Lug Width 15 mm
Crystal Acrylic
Set Content Watch only
Dial color White
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
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.