The Cartier Tank is over 100 years old and is still one of the most recognisable watch designs ever made. It was inspired by the top view of the First World War Tanks, where the tracks ran around the body of the vehicle, and during an age where machines were inspiring design everywhere through design movement including Cubism, Bauhaus and de Stijl. When it was first designed in 1919, the simple design followed Louis Cartier’s design codes from his earlier wristwatches; the railway-style minute tracking, Roman numerals, blue steel hands, the cabochon winding crown and, Cartier’s own invention, the deployment buckle. It was also at this time that Edmond Jaeger designed the movements, which were made by LeCoultre.
The Tank Française first appeared in 1996 and is the sportiest of the Tanks in the collection. Ours displays the signature, white, grained dial with the traditional blue-steel hands, enameled Roman numerals
The Cartier Tank Française ref. 2301 is one of the most wearable “everyday” Tanks Cartier ever made — crisp, architectural lines, a perfectly integrated steel bracelet, and that unmistakable white dial with bold black Roman numerals.
This example is the sought-after mid-size version and keeps things wonderfully clean with no date window, letting the dial design do all the talking. Finished with Cartier’s signature blued sword hands and a blue cabochon crown, it’s instantly recognisable across the room, yet subtle enough to wear daily.
Extra Points
The Cartier Tank is over 100 years old and is still one of the most recognisable watch designs ever made. It was inspired by the top view of the First World War Tanks, where the tracks ran around the body of the vehicle, and during an age where machines were inspiring design everywhere through design movement including Cubism, Bauhaus and de Stijl. When it was first designed in 1919, the simple design followed Louis Cartier’s design codes from his earlier wristwatches; the railway-style minute tracking, Roman numerals, blue steel hands, the cabochon winding crown and, Cartier’s own invention, the deployment buckle. It was also at this time that Edmond Jaeger designed the movements, which were made by LeCoultre. In the 50 years since the first Cartier Tank was sold, only 6,000 were ever produced (6 were produced in the first year and 33 in the second), making Tanks from this age incredibly rare.
Fully serviced in our on-site workshop and comes with our 12 months, non-waterproof service cover.
What we think
The Tank Française is a brilliant choice if you want a Cartier that’s easy to live with. It has the heritage and design language of the classic Tank, but with a sportier, more contemporary edge thanks to the bracelet and case shape.
On the wrist, the mid-size 2301 just works — His or hers , smart at the office , but equally at home with casual wear. This one presents in very good condition, and it’s a strong option for anyone wanting an authentic Cartier look with real daily-wear practicality.
Spec Stuff
Reference : 2301
Movement : Swiss Quartz caliber Age : 2001/2010 Specific Age : Circa 2005 Case Size : 25mm X 30MM Case Thickness :6.7mm Lug to Lug :30mm Lugs : 18mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : Cartier type Box Case Material : Stainless Steel Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
2000s Cartier Tank Française 2301 Stainless Steel Swiss Quartz Mid-Size Watch on Bracelet – White Roman Dial, Blue Hands, Cabochon Crown
