Cartier Tank: A Buyer's Price Guide by Reference

The Cartier Tank is one of the most influential watch designs ever created. Introduced in 1917, its rectangular case with extended brancards (side bars suggesting tank treads) established a template that persists today.

But "the Tank" isn't one watch — it's a family of dozens of references spanning over a century. This guide maps the Tank universe, explains what separates each variant, and provides real market prices so you know what you should pay.

Understanding the Tank Family Tree

The Tank family includes:

• Tank Louis Cartier — The original, closest to the 1917 design
• Tank Américaine — Elongated, curved case
• Tank Française — Square-ish with integrated bracelet
• Tank Solo — Simplified modern version (now called Tank Must)
• Tank Must — Current production accessible line
• Tank MC — Mechanical with in-house movement
• Tank Cintrée — Ultra-elongated vintage-inspired
• Vintage Tanks — Various historical references

Each has distinct proportions, movements, and price points. Let's break them down.

Tank Solo / Tank Must

The most accessible modern Tanks. "Tank Solo" was the name until 2021; "Tank Must" is the current designation.

Tank Must (Current Production)

Small (29.5mm x 22mm)

• Quartz movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $2,900
• Pre-owned: $2,200–$2,600

Large (33.7mm x 25.5mm)

• Quartz movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $3,100
• Pre-owned: $2,400–$2,800

Large Automatic (33.7mm x 25.5mm)

• Cartier 1847 MC automatic
• Steel case
• Retail: $4,000
• Pre-owned: $3,200–$3,600

SolarBeat (New for 2024)

• Photovoltaic dial (solar powered)
• Steel case
• Retail: $2,850
• Pre-owned: $2,200–$2,500

Value assessment: The Tank Must/Solo is the entry point to Cartier Tank ownership. The quartz models offer the Tank look at accessible prices; the automatic adds mechanical credibility. The SolarBeat is an interesting hybrid — never needs a battery, eco-friendly positioning.

Best buy: Tank Must Large (quartz) at $2,400–$2,800 pre-owned offers the classic Tank proportions at the most accessible price point.

Tank Solo (Previous Generation, 2004–2021)

Small (WSTA0030 equivalent)

• Pre-owned: $1,800–$2,200

Large (WSTA0028 equivalent)

• Pre-owned: $2,000–$2,600

XL Automatic (WSTA0029)

• Pre-owned: $2,800–$3,400

Value assessment: Previous-gen Solo models offer identical aesthetics to current Tank Must at 10–20% lower prices. No functional difference.

Tank Française

The Tank Française introduced in 1996 features a more square case with an integrated bracelet. It's sportier and more modern than the traditional Tank silhouette.

Current Production (2023 redesign)

Small (25mm x 20mm)

• Quartz movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $4,000
• Pre-owned: $3,400–$3,800

Medium (32mm x 27mm)

• Quartz movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $4,350
• Pre-owned: $3,600–$4,000

Medium Automatic (32mm x 27mm)

• Cartier 1847 MC automatic
• Steel case
• Retail: $5,500
• Pre-owned: $4,400–$4,800

Large Automatic (36.7mm x 30.5mm)

• Cartier 1847 MC automatic
• Steel case
• Retail: $5,650
• Pre-owned: $4,600–$5,000

Value assessment: The 2023 redesign refined proportions and updated the bracelet. It's the sportiest Tank, suitable for everyday wear with water resistance to 30m. The integrated bracelet means you're committed to the full look — less versatile with straps.

Best buy: Medium Automatic at $4,400–$4,800 pre-owned balances size, movement type, and value.

Previous Generation (Pre-2023)

Older Française references traded on original designs from 1996. Prices:

Steel quartz: $1,500–$2,500
Steel automatic: $2,200–$3,500
Gold models: $4,000–$12,000+

Value assessment: Earlier Françaises offer significant value but differ aesthetically from current production. Some prefer the original proportions.

Tank Louis Cartier

The Tank Louis Cartier is the closest to the original 1917 design. It's the purest expression of the Tank concept: rectangular case, prominent brancards, minimal dial, worn on a leather strap.

Current Production

Small (29.5mm x 22mm)

• Quartz movement
• 18k yellow, white, or pink gold
• Retail: $11,800–$12,500
• Pre-owned: $8,500–$10,000

Large (33.7mm x 25.5mm)

• Manual-wind Cartier 8971 MC
• 18k gold
• Retail: $14,500–$15,500
• Pre-owned: $10,000–$13,000

Extra-Large (40mm x 34mm)

• Manual-wind Cartier 8971 MC
• 18k gold
• Retail: $16,500–$17,500
• Pre-owned: $12,000–$15,000

Value assessment: The Tank Louis Cartier is a dress watch for those who value historical significance and pure design. All-gold cases mean significantly higher prices than steel Tanks. The manual-wind movement requires daily winding — a feature, not a bug, for enthusiasts.

Best buy: Large in yellow gold at $10,000–$13,000 pre-owned represents the most iconic Tank experience.

Vintage Tank Louis Cartier

1970s–1990s Tank Louis Cartier watches with Cartier-branded movements (often based on LeCoultre):

18k gold, manual-wind: $4,000–$8,000 depending on condition and provenance
Vermeil (gold over silver): $1,500–$3,000

Value assessment: Vintage Tank Louis Cartier offers the purist experience at significant discounts to modern. Condition varies widely; prioritize original dials and working movements.

Tank Américaine

The Tank Américaine features an elongated, curved case that wraps around the wrist. It's more dynamic than the strict rectangularity of other Tanks.

Current Production

Small (35mm x 19mm)

• Quartz movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $5,750
• Pre-owned: $4,500–$5,000

Medium (41mm x 22.5mm)

• Automatic movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $7,750
• Pre-owned: $6,000–$6,800

Large (45mm x 26.5mm)

• Automatic movement
• Steel case
• Retail: $8,150
• Pre-owned: $6,500–$7,200

Gold variants: $12,000–$25,000+ depending on size and metal

Value assessment: The curved case makes the Américaine more comfortable on wrist than some might expect. It's a statement piece — more distinctive than Tank Solo, more wearable than Tank Louis.

Best buy: Medium steel automatic at $6,000–$6,800 pre-owned balances proportions and value.

Tank MC

The Tank MC ("Manufacture Cartier") features Cartier's in-house caliber 1904 MC. It's for buyers who prioritize movement pedigree.

References

WSTA0010 (Steel, black dial)

• Cartier 1904 MC automatic
• Retail: ~$7,000 (discontinued)
• Pre-owned: $4,500–$5,500

W5330003 (Steel, silver dial)

• Pre-owned: $4,000–$5,000

Pink gold variants: $8,000–$12,000 pre-owned

Value assessment: The Tank MC offers in-house mechanical credibility in the Tank format. Discontinued but readily available pre-owned. Good choice for those who want "serious watch" movement with Tank design.

Best buy: Steel variant at $4,500–$5,500 pre-owned — in-house movement Tank at accessible prices.

Tank Cintrée

The Tank Cintrée is an ultra-elongated variant inspired by 1920s originals. It's a connoisseur's choice — distinctive, elegant, and impractical for everyday wear.

Current Production (Cartier Privé)

Platinum or gold

• Manual-wind skeleton or time-only
• Retail: $25,000–$50,000+
• Pre-owned: $18,000–$35,000

Value assessment: The Cintrée is not a first Tank. It's a statement for collectors who appreciate extreme proportions and haute horlogerie finishing.

Vintage Tanks: The Deep Cuts

Vintage Tanks from the 1920s–1970s offer historical significance and unique patina.

Key References

Tank Normale (1920s–1930s)

• Manual-wind movements (often Jaeger or LeCoultre)
• 18k gold or platinum
• Auction prices: $10,000–$50,000+ depending on rarity and condition

Tank Basculante (1930s–1940s)

• Reversible case (like JLC Reverso)
• Extremely rare
• Auction prices: $15,000–$100,000+

Must de Cartier Tank (1970s–1990s)

• Vermeil (gold over silver) cases
• Quartz movements
• Pre-owned: $800–$2,000

The Must de Cartier vermeil Tanks are the most accessible vintage Cartier option. They capture the Tank aesthetic at prices below modern steel models.

Value assessment: Vintage Tanks require careful authentication and condition assessment. Buy from reputable auction houses or specialized dealers.

Price Comparison Table

Which Tank Should You Buy?

For First Cartier / Budget Conscious

Tank Must Large Quartz ($2,400–$2,800 pre-owned)
The essential Tank experience at the most accessible price. Quartz is practical; the design is timeless.

For Everyday Wear

Tank Française Medium Automatic ($4,400–$4,800 pre-owned)
Integrated bracelet, sportier proportions, 30m water resistance. The most wearable Tank.

For Mechanical Enthusiasts

Tank MC ($4,500–$5,500 pre-owned)
In-house movement in Tank form. Demonstrates watch nerd credibility.

For Dress Watch Purists

Tank Louis Cartier Large ($10,000–$13,000 pre-owned)
The original design. Manual-wind ritual. Pure elegance.

For Vintage Seekers

Must de Cartier Tank Vermeil ($800–$2,000)
Authentic vintage Cartier at accessible prices. Accept the patina.

Buying Strategy

New vs Pre-Owned

Pre-owned Tanks typically trade 15–30% below retail. Given Cartier's brand strength and design longevity, pre-owned is excellent value.

Quartz vs Mechanical

For Tanks, quartz is historically appropriate — many vintage Tanks used quality quartz movements. Don't dismiss quartz for purist reasons.

Authentication

Fake Cartiers exist. Buy from:

• Cartier boutiques (new)
• Authorized dealers
• Reputable pre-owned dealers (Watchbox, Crown & Caliber)
• Auction houses (Christie's, Sotheby's)
• Chrono24 with Buyer Protection

Sizing

Tank proportions are small by modern standards. Try before buying if possible. The Large usually works for men; Medium or Small for women — but these are guidelines, not rules.

Tools like Dealhound can track specific Tank references across platforms, alerting you when target models drop below typical market prices.

Final Thoughts

The Cartier Tank has endured for over a century because the design is perfect. It doesn't need updating, reimagining, or disruption — just careful stewardship of a timeless template.

Whether you buy a $2,000 Must de Cartier vermeil or a $15,000 Tank Louis Cartier, you're wearing a piece of design history that will look appropriate in any era.

That's the Tank's genius: it doesn't age because it was never trendy. It was always just... right.

Looking for a specific Tank reference? Dealhound tracks Cartier listings across major platforms and alerts you when prices drop.