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Pre-Owned Cartier Tank

A design born in 1917 and worn for over a century, the Cartier Tank stands as a pillar of horological style. Our curated selection of pre-owned Tank watches offers an opportunity to own a legacy of modernism, elegance, and innovation.

27 Watches
27 Watches

The Legacy of the Cartier Tank

Since its debut in 1917, the Cartier Tank has been one of the most enduring silhouettes in fine watchmaking. Inspired by the form of military tanks seen during WWI, Louis Cartier's geometric vision became a modernist masterpiece - a watch that bridges industrial design with Parisian refinement. Over the decades, the Tank has expanded into multiple sub-collections, each retaining the distinctive case architecture while offering unique interpretations of Cartier's aesthetic codes.

Explore Pre-Owned Cartier Tank Watches

With over a century of history, the Cartier Tank has redefined what it means to wear a rectangular watch. Introduced in 1917 and brought to market in 1919, the Tank's minimalist case lines, integrated lugs, and elegant proportions have remained remarkably consistent — while the collection has evolved through multiple sub-families and complications. Our pre-owned Cartier selection showcases these variations across eras and wrist sizes.

Tank Française

Introduced in 1996, the Tank Française gave the Tank its first fully integrated metal bracelet and a more angular case design. The Tank Française Small Model embodies subtle refinement, while the Medium Model offers balanced proportions suitable for everyday wear. For a bolder look, the Large Two-Tone Model combines steel and yellow gold for a more pronounced wrist presence.

Tank Must and Tank Solo

The Tank Must collection revives Cartier's 1970s initiative to bring the Tank to a wider audience. Minimalist, versatile, and unmistakably Cartier, the Tank Must in stainless steel offers a sleek black dial and quartz convenience. Meanwhile, the Tank Solo — a more recent reinterpretation — stays true to the Tank's core DNA with Roman numerals and sword-shaped hands.

For larger wrists, the Tank Must Extra-Large offers an updated, expansive case profile with automatic movement and a contemporary wrist feel.

Tank Américaine

The Tank Américaine, introduced in 1989, elongates the proportions of the Tank Cintrée to create a sleek, curved profile that hugs the wrist. It offers a more modern presence while retaining Cartier's classic codes. Available in steel and precious metals, with both quartz and mechanical movements, the Tank Américaine is a favorite among collectors who prefer a slightly bolder rectangular case with elegant curvature.

Tank Louis Cartier

The Tank Louis Cartier is perhaps the purest expression of the original Tank design. Distinguished by its rounded brancards and refined case dimensions, this model has been worn by cultural figures including Andy Warhol and Princess Diana. Often crafted in yellow or rose gold, the Louis Cartier Tank embodies timeless restraint and is often fitted with a manual-wind movement and signature cabochon crown.

Tank Chinoise and Limited Editions

For connoisseurs of rare designs, the Tank Chinoise Limited Edition offers an architectural reinterpretation of the classic Tank with Art Deco influences and bold geometry — underscoring Cartier's reputation for artistic watchmaking.

Materials, Movements, and Complications

Cartier Tank watches have been produced in stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum, and two-tone combinations. While many feature quartz movements for precision and simplicity, mechanical and automatic calibers — especially in larger or more exclusive models — are common. Subtle complications such as date windows and small seconds have also appeared, though the Tank remains celebrated for its pure and symmetrical form.

Compare with the Cartier Santos and Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

The Cartier Santos shares the Tank's design pedigree but emphasizes sportier case lines and exposed screws. While the Santos leans into aviation and functionality, the Tank remains firmly in the domain of understated refinement. Meanwhile, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso offers a bolder Art Deco profile with its rotating case, making it a compelling alternative for those drawn to rectangular dress watches. Many collectors seek to own both - balancing the functional intrigue of the Reverso with the elegant minimalism of the Tank.

Authorized Cartier Retailer

In addition to our pre-owned offerings, we are proud to be an authorized retailer for new Cartier watches. Explore the current collection on our Cartier brand page and visit one of our showrooms for a personalized consultation.

Explore the broader landscape of horology through our full pre-owned watch collection , or return to our curated selection of pre-owned Cartier watches to discover more icons from the maison.

Is the Cartier Tank Right for You?

Perfect for collectors with an eye for heritage design, professionals who value understated luxury, or anyone seeking a dress watch with cultural and artistic significance, the Cartier Tank continues to resonate with watch lovers around the world. Its versatility across sizes and materials ensures there's a Tank for every wrist and every occasion.

Our Commitment to Quality and Service

Each pre-owned Cartier Tank watch is authenticated and fully serviced by our team of in-house specialists. Backed by a two-year global warranty, every purchase is supported by concierge guidance, whether online or in person. From model comparisons to private viewings, our team is here to help you find the perfect piece of watchmaking history.

The Cartier Tank is an iconic rectangular dress watch introduced in 1917. It's known for its Art Deco design and minimalist aesthetic.
Yes. Every Cartier Tank watch at The 1916 Company undergoes thorough authentication and inspection for quality and legitimacy.
Our inventory often includes the Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Française, Tank Must, and Tank Solo — each offering its own unique design features.
Pre-owned models offer excellent value and provide access to discontinued or limited editions, all while retaining Cartier's celebrated craftsmanship.
Prices vary by model, materials, and condition. Entry-level models like the Tank Must start around a few thousand dollars, while rarer references can command upwards of $50,000.
Yes. We offer trade-in and purchase options for select Cartier watches. Please contact our team for an appraisal or visit our Sall and Trade page to start the process.
Yes. While there are size variations traditionally marketed to men or women, the Cartier Tank is widely considered a unisex timepiece appreciated by wearers of all genders.
Tank Louis features classic lines and leather straps. The Française adds a sporty metal bracelet. The Must offers accessible design variations, often with quartz movements.