Cartier, London

In the annals of horological history, few timepieces have captured the imagination and epitomised elegance quite like the Cartier Tank Cintrée. Born from the crucible of innovation and design, this iconic watch stands as a testament to Cartier's relentless pursuit of excellence and its ability to redefine the boundaries of watchmaking.

In the wake of the First World War, a seismic shift was underway in the world of design. Inspired by the armored vehicles that roamed the battlefields, Louis Cartier conceived the Tank in 1917—a revolutionary timepiece that embodied the spirit of modernity and sophistication. Yet, it was four years later, in 1921, that the Tank Cintrée made its debut, signaling a new chapter in Cartier's storied legacy.

The Tank Cintrée was a triumph of form and function, marrying the ergonomic curved case profile of the Tonneau with the sleek lines of the Tank's brancards. This fusion of design elements resulted in a watch that was both timeless and avant-garde, a symbol of Cartier's ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation.

The present watch, which is being offered by the family of the original owner, was made in Paris c.1929 and features a London import mark for the same year, in addition to this a London spot mark featuring dots either side can be seen on the caseback, denoting its Cartier London inventory number. The watch was then serviced by Cartier London in 1971 and is accompanied by its original service paperwork detailing the work carried out. The movement was replaced along with the dial, hence the signature London style dial, eschewing the traditional railroad minute track, it embraces a dial layout that is at once free-spirited and sophisticated. The exaggerated Roman numerals, strategically placed, evoke a sense of whimsy and elegance, inviting the wearer into a world of timeless sophistication.