Cartier has an incredibly rich back catalog with numerous models, produced in many different, often uncommon, executions. This Tank Jumbo with automatic movement is the perfect example.

Most vintage Tanks were small, elegant, handwinders, while Tanks produced since the 1980s often appear with a quartz movement. For a few years in the 1970s, however, Cartier produced a large Tank with an automatic movement. This rare Jumbo model measures 28 mm x 35 mm, which is significantly larger than the classic Tank Louis. To accommodate the automatic movement, the case back has a round protrusion. This may look odd at first, but on the wrist it isn’t noticeable at all. The Jumbo just wears as a more contemporary version of the classic Tank.

This Jumbo dates back to the early-1970s and sports the classic white dial with painted black Roman numerals and minute track that we have come to associate so closely with Cartier. The “Paris” signature at the 6 o’clock position reveals that the original dial is still in place. These dials are often replaced by generic “Swiss made” dials during service. Finding a rare watch like the Jumbo with the original dial is quite exceptional; especially if the dial is this strongly preserved. The black lacquer remains thick and legible against a spotless off-white background. The blued hands are without corrosion.

This example is in excellent condition, coming with old service papers from Cartier. However, it was also recently serviced by our Cartier certified watchmaker. It comes on a black leather strap with the original 18K yellow gold Cartier deployant-clasp.