Cartier Tank Louis 78086
The Cartier Tank Louis Ref. 78086 in 18k yellow gold captures the enduring elegance that defines Cartier’s most iconic design. Measuring 23 × 30 mm, it pairs a Paris-signed white dial with bold Roman numerals and blued hands, embodying the quiet sophistication of 1970s Cartier. Powered by a manual-wind movement and worn on a light brown strap, this piece represents the purest expression of the Tank’s timeless geometry and proportion, a watch that remains as relevant today as it was half a century ago.
Excellent vintage condition with very minor wear
Created in the 1970s, the Ref. 78086 continues the lineage of the original Tank Louis, a model first conceived by Louis Cartier in 1917 and refined through decades of subtle evolution. The reference reflects the maison’s signature design language, parallel brancards, crisp Roman typography, and restrained elegance, but in a slightly larger mid-century case that suits modern wear while retaining vintage character.
The presence of a Paris-signed dial adds particular interest for collectors, signaling early production and a direct connection to Cartier’s historic flagship. Combined with its hand-wound caliber and untouched yellow-gold case, this example epitomizes what makes vintage Tanks so enduring: simplicity elevated to an art form.
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