Make: Cartier

Model: Tank Obus

Reference: 16302

Year: 1980s

Movement: Quartz

Box & Papers: Box & service paperwork

Case: 24.5mm 18k Yellow Gold

Dial: White

Bracelet/Strap: New leather strap

Condition: Excellent, vintage (just serviced and polished)

Introduced to Cartier’s range in 1923 as one of the earliest models to be added, not far behind the Tank Normale and Chinoise, the Tank Obus stands out from the rest of its namesake family as not having the traditional vertical “bars” either side of the case.

This model was named Obus for the word “bullet” or “shell” in French, a reference to the elegant and unique bullet-shaped lugs; another reference to its military-inspired design. This design would see over 70 years in production before its last appearance in the late 1990’s.

It is believed that this model was produced in very limited numbers making this a coveted piece among collectors both then and now. It is also one of the more unusual entries in the Tank family with a more square-looking case.

As a discontinued line, this is truly one of the best vintage Cartier choices around, not only benefitting from the vintage “cache” that any pre-millenium Cartier carries, but its absence from the modern catalogue means it’ll stand out from a mile off as something more intriguing and not just “another nice Tank”.

Presented with a Cartier service pouch in excellent, serviced and polished condition, this solid 18k yellow gold piece of history is such a gem we almost didn’t list it so we could keep it!

Cartier Tank Obus 16302 18k Yellow Gold 24.5mm Box With Papers

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