The Shapes of Cartier
Cartier, London
Tank J.J.C. | A yellow gold rectangular wristwatch with gold deployant buckle | Made in 1971-72
Auction Closed
May 10, 02:36 PM GMT
Estimate
16,000 - 24,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: white dial signed Cartier, stretched radial Roman numerals, blued steel epée hands
Calibre: 10’’’ calibre movement signed Jaeger-LeCoultre, lever escapement, damascened Côtes de Genève decoration, lever escapement, 18 jewels, annular balance, flat hairspring, Kif Trior shock absorber
Movement number: main plate numbered 2'058'838
Case: 18k yellow gold rectangular case with polished finish, rounded brancards, beaded cabochon sapphire-set crown, case secured by 4 screws to case sides, gold screw-set lug bars, inside case back with London hallmarks for 18ct gold, date letter ‘q’ for 1971-72 and [JC] Jean-Jacques Cartier punch mark
Case number: 9'651
Closure: 18k gold deployant buckle with London hallmarks and date letter ‘q’ for 1971-72, numbered 9'651
Size: 23.5 x 31 mm (width x length including lugs)
Box: yes
Papers: no
Accessories: Cartier presentation box
Introduced in 1951, the J.J.C. Tank by Cartier was developed by Jean-Jacques Cartier as a distinct interpretation of the original Louis Cartier model. Defined by its softly rounded brancards, it reflects the more expressive and unconventional design language of the London workshop.
The present example, dating from 1971–72, is a refined expression of this lineage. Cased in 18k yellow gold and bearing London hallmarks, it retains the classic proportions of the Tank, complemented by a beaded crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon.
It is, however, through the dial that the London identity is most clearly expressed. The hand painted enamel dial omits the traditional chemin de fer minute track, a signature feature of Cartier London pieces, while the elongated Roman numerals create a more open and graphic composition. Paired with blued steel épée hands, the result is a strikingly pure and characterful interpretation of one of Cartier’s most iconic designs.