COLLECTOR TOOLS · CARTIER
Cartier Tank Reference Guide
A Tank reference is more useful than a silhouette. Begin with the full number, then compare the case proportions, movement and documented execution. This guide connects familiar bracelet models with less frequently encountered historical references.
Choose the right Tank family
Use the family name to narrow a search, not to supply missing specifications. Tank Française, Tank Normale, Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Américaine and Tank Must records belong to the wider Tank directory, but their dimensions and movements cannot be transferred from one to another.
Case number or commercial reference?
The Tank Française 2302 illustrates why this distinction matters. A short case reference can appear in descriptions of different metal executions. Record the complete commercial reference from the paperwork when available, and compare it with the caseback and the actual watch.
Compare width and length separately
For a rectangular watch, one millimetre figure is not enough. Our own 2302 archive example is recorded at 28 mm wide and 35 mm long. Historical auction descriptions may reverse the order or use a different measurement convention. Keep the source wording alongside the numbers.
Researching a less familiar Tank
For London pieces and unusual dials, distinguish a reference from an individual stock or serial number. The cited 7716 example includes a London reference and a separately identified stock number. Its dial and date describe that watch, rather than every watch carrying the same reference.
Selected reference articles
Tank Française 2302
The Watch & Bullion example is a steel-and-gold automatic Tank Française, recorded at 28 × 35 mm. Other dealer entries attached to this case reference describe steel watches and include a 25 mm measurement. These are not interchangeable descriptions of one confirmed commercial reference. Use the photographed watch and its paperwork to resolve the execution; the case number alone is insufficient.
Tank Normale 7716
Sotheby’s identifies the London reference separately from the individual stock number. The cited watch is described as circa 1967–1968 with red numerals. Neither the dial nor this approximate dating is asserted to cover every 7716. The movement is described as mechanical; winding type is not explicitly established in this record.
These selected articles are the editorial starting point. The Cartier reference finder holds the broader source-linked directory, including records that need further documentation.
How to use this guide
Search a complete commercial reference or the reference engraved on the caseback. Keep individual serial numbers separate. Read each source note before comparing measurements. Matching a reference does not date or authenticate an individual watch.
Specifications and examples in this guide are linked to their sources in the reference articles below. Missing fields remain unconfirmed; sale dates are not converted into production dates.
Buying or selling a Cartier Tank?
Tell us the reference you are researching, or send clear photographs and details of your watch. We can discuss sourcing or a potential purchase.
