As consumer preferences shifted the importance of pocket watches wained and the wristwatch watch, a relatively new concept that was originally introduced in 1904, took centre stage. In order for wristwatches to cement their importance, they had to become far more useable in different circumstances. Making a wristwatch waterproof would open an entirely new dimension of usability and practicality. 

The introduction of the Tank Étanche in 1931 marked the first waterproof Cartier wristwatch made. In doing so, Cartier did not compromise on their usual rectangular case instead opting to use four visible screws on the bezel led to the watch being waterproof. 

The Tank à Vis essentially pays homage to the Tank Étanche and was reintroduced within the CPCP collection. The bezel matching that of 1931 with the four visible screws on the corner of each bezel. During the CPCP era, this particular reference housed several complications: time only, dual-time and heure vagabond. The time only variant was made available in yellow gold and platinum, with the latter having a closed case back. 

This platinum Tank à Vis is thought to be rather rare, platinum cases were usually the least produced during the CPCP era. The case is reminiscent of the original Tank circa 1917. The use of visible working screws is a design feature rarely used by Cartier, most bezels appear to be smooth and screwless. The polished frame-like bezel, accentuates the entire bezel and case, resulting in a step bezel effect. The polished facets of the dial contrast rather well with the brushed side profile of the case. The case measures 27mm x 31mm, with a lug to lug length of 39mm. The heft of the platinum case remains balanced on the wrist due to the rather thin profile of the case, 8mm. The rounded lugs also enhance the wearability of the piece. The brushed solid caseback is only found on platinum examples within the CPCP collection, the caseback features three traditional hallmarks. 

Dial

The 18-carat white gold dial features the traditional Cartier Paris signature. The at the centre of the dial is the classic rose motif that gradually reshapes itself into traditional guilloché, it is believed that this was inspired by vintage Cartier clocks. The black roman numerals are printed onto the dial and shaped according to the space left on the periphery of the dial. The blue steel hands provide a contrast that accentuates the legibility of the timepiece and interestingly match that of the crown. 

Movement

The manual wound calibre 437MC is found in this reference, which is based on a Piaget ébauche.  The bridges are decorated with the Cartier interlocking double-C motif, the blue C on the balance wheel is a lovely touch. 

Brand: Cartier
Model: Tank à Vis, 2485E
Movement: 437 MC
Case Diameter: 27mm x 31mm
Year: NOS, Kuwait not dated.
Box & Papers: Cartier Signed box & Unsigned Papers

As consumer preferences shifted the importance of pocket watches wained and the wristwatch watch, a relatively new concept that was originally introduced in 1904, took centre stage. In order for wristwatches to cement their importance, they had to become far more useable in different circumstances. Making a wristwatch waterproof would open an entirely new dimension of usability and practicality.