CIRCA: 1970s
CASE MATERIAL: Yellow gold
CASE DIAMETER: 24 x 32 mm.
DIAL: Silvered
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only
CLASP: Yellow gold Cartier New York deployant clasp
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
WITH: International Repair Guarantee dated 1992

Conditions of Sale
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This lot is offered by Christie's International SA

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Lot Essay

Although the concept of the reversible wristwatch is most closely associated with Jaeger-LeCoultre and its celebrated Reverso, other manufactures explored comparable constructions during the 20th century. In 1933, Cartier designed and patented its own ingenious reversible mechanism, known as the ‘Cabriolet Réversible’ and later associated with the Tank Basculante. Unlike a conventional reversible case, Cartier’s construction allows the watch head to pivot through a complete 360 degrees around a horizontal axis.

It was not until the 1970s that Cartier revisited this distinctive concept within the iconic architecture of the Tank. Combining the Maison’s unmistakable rectangular design language with an unusual and highly tactile mechanical construction, the resulting wristwatch remains one of Cartier’s more intriguing interpretations of the Tank.

The present timepiece is further distinguished by a personalised engraving to the reverse of the rotating case, adding an individual character to this already unusual and fascinating Cartier wristwatch.

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Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing and all functions are working; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Signs of ageing, dust and tiny marks throughout. Hands with scratches.
Case: Scratches and dents. The case back has scratches with slightly faded engravings and hallmarks. The back of the reverso presents signs of wear and an engraved logo. Glass has marks and scratches.
Clasp: Scratches and dents. New-York, stamped 15531.
Strap: The watch is sold and delivered with a Christie's branded strap, the original strap is not included in the sale.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.

Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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