While the modern brand is primarily known for its jewelry, Cartier has a rich horological heritage that has only begun to garner the attention it deserves. Up until about 20 years ago, that history was so overlooked that Cartier launched the Collection Privée Cartier Paris, or ‘CPCP’ as it became known in 1998. A means of expanding their horological offerings following the Quartz Crisis, the CPCP division enabled Cartier to usher in a new era for their watchmaking division with new designs and some truly remarkable feats of horology.
With the Collection Privée, Cartier began fitting their models with movements that could go toe-to-toe with the higher horology brands. Among these exceptional timepieces, the Tank à Vis Ref. 2484, originating from the CPCP program, stands as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship evident in every aspect.
While featuring the Tank's signature rectangular shape in 18-carat yellow gold, the Tank à Vis was, in fact, directly inspired by the historical Tank Étanche design that Cartier created in 1931. As such, the Tank à Vis sports a unique case design as the bezel is secured to the case with screws in each corner which provide a level of water resistance. Furthermore, with its gently sloping lugs, the Tank à Vis’ 27mm wide case wears comfortably as the strap gently follows the direction of the lugs across its wearer's wrist.
Housed within its 18-carat yellow gold case, the Ref. 2484 features Cartier's signature dial design. White with Cartier's iconic central rose guilloche design and ‘Cartier Paris’ inscription, the Ref. 2484 features black Roman numerals and blued steel hands that pop against its white backdrop. Beneath the dial is the hand-wound Cal. 437MC movement. Beautifully finished yet beneath a solid 18-carat gold caseback, the Cal. 437MC was crucial in enabling the Tank à Vis to wear thin on the wrist at just 8mm thick.
A stunning watch that encapsulated the CPCP's goal of showcasing true craftsmanship, the Tank à Vis is an interesting watch within Cartier's heritage and today forms a unique niche within the Tank collection. Blending heritage-focused design with top-tier horology and stunning good looks, the Ref. 2484 indeed does have it all.
