The Cartier Privé Collection, a revered line of timepieces, made its grand return in 2020 after a decade-long hiatus, marking a significant chapter in the world of horology. This revival breathed new life into Cartier’s iconic watches, with a fresh take on a true vintage masterpiece – the 1936 Cartier Tank Asymetrique. This remarkable collection perfectly encapsulates the essence of Cartier’s heritage and innovation, fusing the elegance of the past with the demands of the present.
Originally introduced in the late 1930s, the Tank Asymétrique was celebrated for its bold departure from conventional watch designs, featuring an asymmetrical case that defied convention. In 2020, Cartier resurrected this iconic timepiece, reimagining it with a contemporary twist while preserving the spirit of the original.
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The New Cartier Tank Asymetrique Editions
The Cartier Tank Asymétrique collection, reintroduced in 2020 as part of the Privé Cartier Collection, is a testament to the Maison’s dedication to preserving horological history while infusing it with contemporary flair. This collection revives an original 1936 model, one of Cartier’s most iconic and innovative creations.
The history of the Tank Asymétrique dates back to the Art Deco era when Louis Cartier sought to break away from traditional watch designs. In 1936, Cartier unveiled a groundbreaking timepiece with a case that defied convention. The asymmetrical shape, featuring a diagonal orientation of the dial, was a bold departure from the rectangular and circular cases of the time. This avant-garde design not only challenged watchmaking norms but also became a symbol of Cartier’s visionary approach to horology.
The 2020 revival of the Tank Asymétrique pays homage to this pioneering spirit. Cartier took the original design and infused it with modern elements, resulting in a collection that captures the essence of the 1936 classic while meeting the demands of contemporary watch enthusiasts. The Tank Asymétrique continues to be a hallmark of Cartier’s commitment to heritage and innovation, bridging the gap between the past and the present with grace and style. Each piece in this collection is a fusion of history, artistry, and craftsmanship, ensuring that the legacy of Cartier endures through generations of watch connoisseurs.
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The New Cartier Tank Asymetrique
These classic models are a tribute to the original Tank Asymétrique design, a testament to Cartier’s unwavering commitment to preserving its horological heritage. Crafted from luxurious yellow gold with a champagne dial and brown strap, rose gold with a grey dial and strap, and platinum with a silver dial and grey strap, these timepieces exude an air of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. The unique case shape, with its distinctive diagonal orientation, is a bold departure from traditional watch design, making a resounding statement on the wrist.
Sizing: 47.15mm x 26.2 mm
Metals: Yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum
Dial colors: Silver or anthracite
Movement: Caliber 1917 MC
The dial design, in keeping with Cartier’s minimalist aesthetic, features sharp and elongated Roman numerals complemented by blued steel hands, showcasing a signature Cartier touch that has captivated watch enthusiasts for generations. What truly distinguishes these watches is the manual-winding movement at their heart. Beyond their role as timekeepers, these timepieces serve as guardians of Cartier’s rich heritage, harking back to an era of exquisite craftsmanship and design innovation. Each moment with these watches is a journey through time, a reflection of Cartier’s timeless legacy.
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The Cartier Tank Asymetrique Skeleton
For those who seek the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship, the Cartier Tank Asymétrique Skeleton models represent a dream come true. These watches take the iconic design to an entirely new level by artfully revealing the intricate mechanics within. Crafted in precious materials such as platinum with a blue strap, platinum with diamonds with a dark blue strap, and rose gold with a grey strap, they offer a mesmerizing view of the movement through their intricately skeletonized dials.
Sizing: 47.15mm x 26.2 mm
Metals: Rose gold, platinum, and platinum with 250 diamonds on the bezel
Movement: Cartier 9623 MC
It disrupts the classic Tank’s clean geometry with a compelling fusion of the signature tilted case design and an open worked dial. Built around the lacquer-filled Arabic numerals at 6 and 12 o’clock, the dial’s bridges serve as hour markers, and reveal the in-house Cartier 9623 MC movement beating within.
The exposed gears, bridges, and balance wheel become a visual spectacle, showcasing the artistry and precision of watchmaking. Each glance at these timepieces is an exploration of mechanical excellence, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Cartier’s creations.
The Cartier Tank Asymétrique Skeleton collection stands as a true embodiment of the art of watchmaking, where the beauty lies not only on the surface but also in the mesmerizing world within.
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The Cartier Tank Asymetrique – Final Thoughts
In the world of horology, Cartier has always been synonymous with timeless elegance, and the Cartier Tank Asymétrique collection is no exception. These timepieces bridge the gap between the past and the present, paying homage to a 1936 classic while catering to modern sensibilities. The diverse range of models ensures that there’s a Tank Asymétrique for every discerning collector, from those who appreciate the purity of precious metals to those who crave the fascination of skeletonized movements.
As SwissWatchExpo continues to bring the finest timepieces to enthusiasts around the world, the Cartier Tank Asymétrique collection undoubtedly stands out as a testament to Cartier’s enduring legacy. These watches are not just accessories but cherished heirlooms that tell a story of timeless sophistication and craftsmanship.
Explore our vast selection of Cartier watches, among 40 of the world’s best watch brands, at SwissWatchExpo.com.
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