Cartier

1970s Cartier Paris Tank Automatique 18K YG (Ref. 17002) "Jumbo XL"

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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. 17002 "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.

SPECS

Stock # CTRAUTO17002-2
Brand Cartier
Style Tank Automatique
Model 17002
Serial 14XX
Size Men's
Material 18K Yellow Gold
Dial White Roman "Paris"
Millimeters 28x34.5
Bracelet 2pc Black Alligator Leather Strap W/ 18K YG Cartier Tang Buckle

CASE & BRACELET

The impressive and very well-preserved 18K yellow gold "Jumbo XL" Tank case retains full factory dimensions and present hallmarks throughout. The case has also developed a gorgeous rose patina. The crystal is a flat glass replacement which is common to see in early Carter Tanks. The blue sapphire cabochon crown is an early replacement authentic Cartier crown. The back of the case showcases the "movement bubble" with all of the original factory markings and engravings remaining in crisp and deep condition. The watch comes supplied on a matte black Alligator leather strap with the correct unsigned 18K yellow gold Cartier tang buckle.

DIAL & HANDS

The original white Roman numeral "Paris" dial is in excellent overall condition with some expected vintage elements of age present, namely some light clipping and distressing present in the very bottom right corner of the dial and some additional light spotting from age throughout. Apart from the aforementioned age, the dial does not exhibit the crazing or spidering commonly seen by Cartier in this era. The original blue hour and minute hands are in excellent condition with minor oxidation present at the center posts.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.