The Tank Must was intended to introduce elegance to the general public when it was first introduced in 1977. For a significant portion of Cartier's existence, its timepieces were thought to be a luxury only available to the wealthiest. Les Trente Glorieuses, or "the glorious thirty," refers to the thirty years following World War II when France and its people experienced unprecedented levels of economic prosperity. During this time, things started to change. All of a sudden, a greater number of people found luxury goods appealing and within their reach, and Cartier discovered a new market of upper middle class buyers to whom it could market its goods.
One of the most well-known watches available is The Cartier Tank, which has an instantly identifiable rectangular case - thus the Cartier Tank Must 590005 has represented classic timeless design for years. Roman numerals encircle a minute track designed like a railroad, with "Cartier" constituting one line of the "V" in the 7 o'clock indice. Cartier's iconic heat-treated blue hands contrast sharply with the creamy lemon-yellow dial, making a stunning pair with the crown. Its rectangular shape, inspired by the lines of a tank, ensures that it has a striking yet subtle presence on the wrist. The watch is crafted from 925 silver and plated in 18k gold.
Whether you love it or not, this design icon is a testament to the importance of exquisite and well-balanced design.
Cartier Tank Must | Vermeil | ref. 590005 from 2000
BRAND: Cartier
MODEL: Tank Must
REFERENCE: 590005
YEAR: 2000s
MOVEMENT: Cartier Quartz
CASE DIMENSIONS: 23.5 x 31mm ; 7mm thickness
CASE MATERIAL: 18 carat yellow gold vermeil over silver
GLASS: Plexiglass
BRACELET/STRAP: New Kaufmann Strap
CLASP: Original Cartier Pin Buckle
BOX & PAPERS: None
TAX: Differential taxation according to §24 UStG
The Cartier case of this watch shows signs of wear. However, this watch is also more than 20 years old. It is the classic men's size, measuring 23 x 30mm. The gold vermeil is complete and has no missing spots, and the case is sharply edged and unpolished. The case shows light oxidation in blue, which is normal and could be polished (on request). The dial is brilliant in a creamy vanilla colour, almost perfect. The recognizable sapphire cabochon is on display in the crown.