Perhaps the Tank Louis is considered the standard of any Cartier Tank watch. However this execution in Platinum is anything but standard.

The Cartier Tank is one of the most renowned models from any manufacturer known to exist. The Cartier Tank was first introduced in 1917 by Louis Cartier, inspired by the Renault FT-17 military tanks used during World War I. Its clean, rectangular lines and geometric simplicity were revolutionary for this era, breaking away from the ornate curves common in watch design. The Tank quickly became a symbol of avant-garde style and sophistication, adored by icons like Princess Diana, Andy Warhol, Yves Saint Laurent.. and yes, even our own Laurent.

This particular Tank Louis ref. 1601, carries two additional specifications namely; 'Ultra Plate and Pre-CPCP'. The reason she is dubbed "Ultra Plate" (French for "Ultra Thin"), earns its name due to its ultra-slim profile with its case's thickness measuring in at only 5.5mm. The slimness is achieved by its meticulously engineered manual-wound movement; Cal. 21MC which is based on the F. Piguet 21 movement. In this matter it complements the minimalist ethos of the Tank's design. The refined proportions ensure that the watch sits effortlessly on the wrist, exuding an air of subtle luxury.

Adding to that, this watch hails from the pre-CPCP (Cartier Privée Collection Paris) era, a time before Cartier began producing limited-edition, highly collectible Tanks. Pre-CPCP models like this one are prized for their classic designs and represent a more traditional era of Cartier watchmaking.

This treasure which dates back to ca. 1997 measures a sleek 30 x 24 mm and as such is perfectly proportioned for understated elegance. Behind the mineral glass we can see blued steel sword hands sitting atop a pearly white dial with painted black Roman numerals and a Paris signature at 6 o'clock. She is carried by a stunning black alligator strap from the house of Cartier and a white gold 'Butterfly' folding clasp.