Cartier
1970s Cartier Paris Tank Automatique 18K YG (Ref. 17011) "Jumbo"
The Cartier Tank has become one of the most iconic watch designs of all time, and other than some more eclectic references produced has remained relatively the same over its long run of production. The very first Cartier Tank, the Tank Normale, was originally designed in 1917 and became commercially available in 1919, and its design was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank used by the French Military in the First World War.
The Cartier Tank is the perfect example of excellent design transcending generations. The Tank moved through the early 20th century only to become more relevant during the mid-century design era, and is once again seeing a massive resurgence amongst the watch-collecting community today.
The Tank Automatique ref. 17011 "Jumbo" is a true anomaly produced by Cartier that has become exceedingly collectible throughout the years. Only produced for a short period of time in the 1970s, these larger Tank wristwatches made a lasting impression. Interestingly, the original Tank Automatique "Jumbo" was produced in two sizes, the "Jumbo" ref. 17011 and the larger "Jumbo XL" ref. 17002. The movement used is a simple yet reliable ETA-based time-only movement, and the case back was manufactured to fit around the movement in a unique bubble design so as to eliminate any excess material and maintain the Tank's minimalist personality.
| Stock # | CTRAUTO17011-2 | |
| Brand | Cartier | |
| Style | Tank Automatique "Jumbo" | |
| Model | 17011 | |
| Serial | 03XX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18K Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | White Roman "Paris" | |
| Millimeters | 25.5x33 | |
| Strap | Cartier Black Alligator Leather Strap W/ Cartier 18K YG Deployant Clasp |
CASE & BRACELET
The 18K yellow gold case is in impressive condition showing no signs of major polishing in the past with the original factory geometry and dimensions intact. The hallmarks are present and deep as well. The case retains its original blue sapphire cabochon crown. The back of the case showcases the "bubble" that holds the movement and retains all of its factory markings in crisp condition with minimal wear and previous polishing signs present. The watch comes supplied on a later-era Cartier black alligator strap with an era-correct 18K yellow and rose gold Cartier deployant buckle. The strap is currently sized to fit a 6 3/4-inch wrist but can be adjusted to fit a smaller or larger wrist size.
DIAL & HANDS
The original white Roman numeral "Paris" dial features the hidden "Cartier" signature within the 7 o'clock numeral. The dial itself is in virtually flawless condition, with only very subtle spidering present in the surface of the dial and no elements of age. The original blued hands are in perfect condition as well.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.
