2817 Cartier CPCP Tank à Guichets, Pink Gold

The Tank À Guichets is back and more vintage-leaning than ever. But this is not that watch. This is a CPCP Tank À Guichets. The Tank À Guichets has always been a limited release in Cartier, from first commission in 1928 until this 100 example run in 2004 over 90 years, it’s only ever been a few small runs of 100 examples or so. That remains the same today, 200 examples are being made. Despite being far away from limelight and normal production, it’s something of a cult classic for the Cartier crazy. I like to think of it as an Art Deco Zeitwerk made for the Great Gatsby, and while that could be said about many mid-century jumping hour wristwatches, this is the one they’re all trying to be.

The Guichet was brought to market in 1928 as a commission for VVIP clients, in a similar manner to how the Crash began. The name refers to the registers (guichets is French for windows), which ‘jump’ as the time advances digitally (still mechanically powered). Its history is downright clandestine. Despite documented origin and order history, no one seems know just why Cartier chose to go digital or what inspired the change. What is certain is that the design was, and always has been, a special order and highly coveted. It was so coveted that, in period, Duke Ellington and Gary Cooper wore one daily (as well as the Maharaja of Patiala).

Nine examples were released after the 1920s originals in 1996. Then, in 1997 and for Cartier’s 150th anniversary, 150 platinum examples were produced. Finally, in 2004 as a part of the masterful CPCP collection, a limited release of 100 examples in rose gold were produced. At least, that was the final run up until a few weeks ago. That’s what you’re looking at here. Technically it’s a 2006 watch, but a 2004 production run. The 96 and 97 releases are distinguished by their slightly smaller crowns. Both utilized a Piaget ébauche calibre 9752 MC and were a discreet 26mm x 37mm. Then you have this large octagon. For the latest releases, the crowns have moved up top. They all have their unique points of charm but one this is for sure: there are a lot more Crashes out there. 

(A special note for this Find, the actual example being sold at Huntington Company is pictured last, other photography is of a separate example sold a few years ago by our friends at A Collected Man, who captured some excellent lifestyle images.) The watch on offer appears in great condition, the seller is on the East Coast of the US and also happens to be offering a platinum example currently.