Cartier, London
Tank Cintrée | A yellow gold wristwatch | Circa 1970
Auction Closed
May 11, 11:29 AM GMT
Estimate
20,000 - 40,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: white
Calibre: cal. 840 manual winding, 17 jewels
Case: 18k yellow gold, case back secured by 4 screws
Case number: 9’476
Closure: 18k yellow gold Cartier folding clasp stamped JC and 9’476
Size: 18.5 x 35.5 mm (width x length)
Signed: case and dial signed Cartier, movement signed LeCoultre
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: none
Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.
The Cartier Tank Cintrée is a distinguished and elegant timepiece within the renowned Cartier Tank collection, which has symbolised luxury and sophistication since 1917.
Introduced in 1921, the Tank Cintrée is famous for its elongated, curved case that follows the natural curve of the wrist, offering both comfort and a unique aesthetic. Produced in various precious metals such as yellow gold, pink gold, and platinum, each version of the Tank Cintrée enhances its luxury appeal.
It was the first variation based on the Tank 'Normale'. The Cintrée differs quite significantly from it for two main reasons:
Firstly, the case was entirely curved as to almost mould to the wearer's wrist. This shape was inherited from the Cartier Tonneau created in 1906. The idea at that time was to create a new shape for a new watch: the wristwatch, invented just a few years before. Elegant and convenient, this profile made possible the creation of watches with more generous and versatile proportions.
Secondly, the rectangular shape of the case, which is today commonly accepted, was, at that time, revolutionary.
Like the curved shape, it can be considered as a defining stage of the adaptation of a watch to a wristwatch at a time when wearing a watch on the wrist was still considered as an eccentricity. In opposition to a circle, the rectangular shape isn't linked to the traditional round shape of a pocket watch. Furthermore, the dial becomes rectangular as well and is no longer subject to the round way of displaying the time but rather follow the shape of the case. The form doesn't follow the function anymore.
This new design makes the transition from the case to the bracelet more harmonious and aesthetically pleasant. The unity of the case and bracelet is also reinforced by the curved profile of the case.
Over the years, Cartier has adapted the Tank Cintrée into three different sizes, from the original and exuberant larger version to the mid and smaller and more understated size.
Part of the larger Tank family, the Tank Cintrée has been favored by numerous celebrities, royals, and tastemakers throughout history. More than just a watch, the Cartier Tank Cintrée is a piece of horological history and a symbol of enduring style, making it a coveted piece among collectors and connoisseurs of fine watches.