The Cartier Tank Française Goes Modern

The Cartier Tank is one of the most iconic and desirable timepiece collections on the planet. Its rich and varied history stretches back over a hundred years, with the Maison demonstrating a remarkable ability to reinterpret and reimagine its original Tank design from 1907. A much-loved example of this comes in the form of the Tank Française, which Cartier first unveiled to the world in 1996. An immediate sensation, the Française was the first Tank to be offered on a metal bracelet matching the case. This year, Cartier works its magic once again, unveiling a more modern, sportier (yet still stylish) look for its famed Tank-on-bracelet. Read on for everything you need to know about the new Cartier Tank Française.

A Modern Take

At first glance, you might be hard pressed to spot too many obvious differences between the new Tank Française and its predecessors. That is of course intentional on the part of Cartier, which specialises in updating and evolving its classic designs without losing sight of what made them so successful in the first place. As regards the Tank Française, that means doing more with less. Simplifying the lines, placing more emphasis on the model’s distinctive case shape and flow, and further improving the integration of the bracelet.

The result is a contemporary aesthetic that effortlessly transitions from daywear to evening attire without breaking a sweat. Key to this is the satin-brushed finishing of the case and bracelet, which is much more in keeping with modern tastes. Cartier still makes good use of their expert polishers but more sparingly, limiting the high shine finishing primarily to the bracelet and the crown. Speaking of which, the crown – decorated with cabochon-shaped blue spinel – has been reworked and now nestles into the caseband more snugly. Perhaps the most obvious change though is to the primary link that connects the case to the bracelet. Its design has been modernized, creating a connection between the case and bracelet that is more seamless than ever and allows the case to sit flush against the wrist.

The dial is quintessentially Cartier; Roman numerals, railway chapter ring and blued sword-shape hands. Again though, understated aesthetic updates add to the contemporary look and feel of the watch. For example, the hour markers are now applied, instead of printed, and stand out slightly against the dial giving a sense of depth. Likewise, the brushed finishing of the dials – either radially or vertically – further accentuates the clean, modern style. In terms of dial colour, the steel models show a timeless silver, while the gold versions opt for a light champagne finish.

Meet The New Models

The new Cartier Tank Française makes its debut with seven references split across three different case sizes: Small (25.7mm x 21.7mm x 6.8mm); Medium (32mm x 27mm x 7.1mm); and, Large (36.7mm x 30.5mm x 10.1mm). All three case sizes are available in stainless steel, with the Small and Medium sizes also offered in yellow gold. For something even more special, there’s the option of a yellow gold case with diamond-set brancards.

The Small and Medium models run on Swiss made, high-autonomy (8 year) quartz movements, offering precision and reliability, as well as peace of mind. The Large model is equipped with the automatic calibre 1853, providing the added functionality of a date display via an aperture on the dial at 3 o’clock. Oscillating at 28,800 vibrations/hour, it provides 37 hours of power reserve when fully wound.

Available Now

Continuing the legacy of this iconic model, the new Cartier Tank Française collection is available to purchase now from Watches of Switzerland. All steel models, as well as a selection of yellow gold models, are available for purchase online with complimentary shipping. To view any of the models in the collection in person, please arrange a visit to your nearest Watches of Switzerland boutique today. Our friendly and professional staff will be pleased to talk you through each model in more detail.