Simple Sophistication with Cartier Tank Française

The beloved Tank Française collection from Cartier gets a subtle update for that added contemporary feel.

Descended from the Original

First launched in 1996, the Tank Française was an iteration of the original Tank, now known as the Tank “Normale”, that was created in 1917. This rectangular watch, with its elegant proportions transformed by Cartier’s distinct sense of design, is one of the most recognisable and iconic watch collection in the world.

Like the name suggests, the Tank Française has a certain je ne sais quoi, which is simple yet sophisticated, both masculine and feminine, with a classic allure that makes all the difference.  And little wonder in the past 27 years, it has adorned the wrists of style icons of all backgrounds.

Linking Aesthetics with Ergonomics

This year, Cartier has streamlined the Tank Française, with the case and bracelet becoming one. Beginning with the design, it retains the concept of the first Tank Française from 1996, with the metal bracelet integrated into the watch case, itself designed as if it were one of the links.

The designers have pushed this concept further. The new bracelet, with its seamlessly interlocked links, create a curve to sit ergonomically on the wrist. This challenge required 13,000 hours of development, 460 hours of simulations, and 340 hours of tests and analyses, guaranteeing its resistance. With more than 100 components, it requires a new technical procedure that ensures the connection between each link is totally invisible. Alternating satin and polished finishes enhance the Tank Française’s air of sophistication.

Its proportions have also received an update, with the small model measuring at 25.7 x 21.2mm, the medium model at 32 x 27mm, and large model 36.7×30.5mm. The dials, in opaline silver for the steel versions and champagne gold for the yellow gold versions, feature a sunburst brushed finishing and applied numerals, with contrasting blued hands. The crown, adorned with a cabochon sapphire, a Cartier signature, is now partially recessed into the case for a sleeker look on the yellow gold or steel versions. For those who seek to dazzle, the small and medium models come adorned with two rows of diamonds along the vertical brancards, available in both yellow gold or steel.

Discover Cartier’s new Tank Française at The Hour Glass.