Cartier Tank Solo "Panther" - c. 2009

When a Tank meets a Panthere

Description

How to begin with anything other than the motif of the dial, which takes up the fur of a Panther. The Panthere has been the spirit animal of Cartier, since the first years of the brand. We find another nod to this animal on the strap: not only are the patterns imprinted on it, but it is made of soft, fur-like leather.

Then, of course it remains a Tank Solo ref. 3170 steel. With its 24x31 mm stainless steel case, it is a nice alternative to the gold Tank Louis Cartier. The folding clasp and the bracelet are obviously signed Cartier. Note that the bracelet is easily adjustable on these generations of deployants, which is really practical!

How to wear it?

This watch is a statement on its own ! You could wear it as it the touch of originality of an otherwise more classic outfit, or to complete an already elaborate and eccentric style!

Why did Françoise choose it ?

How not to love this Tank which is bold enough to play with its own codes, with its classic history. This one clearly stands out from its classic roots ! Despite her research, Françoise unfortunately found little information on this series, which includes at least one "Panther" Tank and one "Pyhton" Tank. Limited edition for a country or a boutique ? Anniversary edition ? Impossible to know, but impossible for Françoise to miss it!

History

The Tank watch appeared in 1917 under the name "Normale" to honor the heroes of the First World War. The name is an obvious nod to the military vehicules that inspired the design. Five years later, the Tank Louis Cartier emerged. Quite similar to the first one, the Tank Louis has a more elongated case and thinner, rounded brancards (shafts). Several generations follow one another, retaining the same identity while adapting to new watchmaking technologies such as quartz. The steel Solo model appeared in the 2000s. It may be the watch seen on the most celibrities' wrist throughout the years : Jackie Kennedy, Lady Diana, Alain Delon, Catherine Deneuve, Yves Saint-Laurent, Gary Cooper, Johnny Hallyday or Sophia Coppola...  Are you next?