Cartier Tank Louis 81068

Cartier 81068, lady’s, quartz, silver dial, Roman numerals, diamond-set bezel; “Tank Louis Quartz”; (18-carat) yellow gold and diamonds

The Cartier Tank collection was introduced in 1917. Its design, attributed to Louis Cartier, was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tanks observed during the First World War: the lateral “brancards” (side bars) of the case evoke the vehicle’s tracks and structure the characteristic rectangular form of the model. According to tradition, an initial series of six watches was presented to the American General John J. Pershing and members of his staff. Production soon expanded, and over the course of the twentieth century the Tank became Cartier’s most important watch line. The Tank Louis, introduced in 1922, represents the most classical interpretation of the original design. It is distinguished by its balanced proportions, straight “brancards”, and refined aesthetic, faithful to the principles of symmetry and restraint favoured by Louis Cartier, who himself wore the model. Reference 81068, intended for a lady’s wrist and produced in the 1990s, preserves these codes in a precious execution. The watch features a rectangular 18-carat yellow gold case measuring approximately 24 x 31 mm, protected by a sapphire crystal. The crown is set with a diamond cabochon. The silvered dial bears printed Roman numerals and blued-steel “Glaive” sword-shaped hands, characteristic elements of Cartier’s watchmaking aesthetic. Certain versions are set with brilliant-cut diamonds. The watch is powered by a quartz movement and fitted with a matching 18-carat yellow gold bracelet secured by a concealed deployant clasp. Through its design inherited from the historic Tank Louis and its use of precious materials, reference 81068 belongs to the enduring stylistic lineage of one of Cartier’s most emblematic horological creations.