TANK LOUIS CARTIER MODEL, NO. 53862 / 025020, CIRCA 1965

The Cartier Tank needs almost no introduction. Undoubtedly one of the most recognisable and desirable wristwatches in the world, its simplicity, beauty and elegance have transcended the passing fashions of successive decades. Indeed, the timeless appeal of the Cartier Tank brings to mind the words of the great Yves Saint Laurent: ‘Fashions fade, style is eternal’. Naturally, numerous variations of the classic Tank have been created since its introduction in 1918. Among the rarest and most seldom seen is the platinum-cased Tank Louis Cartier.

The present superb example, dating from the 1960s, was made during a period when Cartier Paris produced wristwatches in extremely small quantities. Housed in a solid platinum case, it bears traditional French platinum hallmarks, hand-stamped serial numbers and the distinctive punch mark of Edmond Jaeger, comprising the initials ‘EJ’ within a lozenge. Possessing an extraordinarily chic and understated elegance, the timepiece is further distinguished by its probably original, numbered platinum deployant clasp, likewise bearing the Edmond Jaeger punch mark.

The classic Tank Louis Cartier enjoys considerable cachet and remains one of the most eagerly sought-after models among collectors today. Vintage platinum examples are particularly elusive, appearing only exceptionally rarely on the market. To the best of our knowledge, the present timepiece is one of only a very small handful of vintage platinum Tank Louis Cartier examples ever to have been offered at international auction, further underlining its extraordinary rarity and desirability.