The Cartier Tank has become one of the most iconic watch designs of all time, and other than some more eclectic references produced has remained relatively the same over its long run of production. The Cartier Tank was originally designed in 1917 and became commercially available in 1919, and its design was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank used by the French Military in the First World War. Although the Cartier Tank appears to have remained the same for the course of its design life, there are some interesting anomalies that happened during its production run that resulted in very collectible and very rare timepieces.

This Carter Tank Louis Cartier, or Tank LC, is best known amongst collectors as the "Extra Plate" or "Extra Thin" and is one of the thinnest Cartier watches ever produced and features a total thickness of 4.9mm including the crystal. This impressive feat is achieved through the utilization of the renowned Frederic Piguet Cal. 21 ultra-thin mechanical movement. Though this Cartier Tank LC Extra Plate is one of the thinnest watches Cartier ever made, it retains the standard height and width dimensions of the Tank LC in this era. This makes for a perfect dress timepiece, both beautiful and elegant with the added benefit of sliding under the shirt cuff with ease.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The extra thin or "Extra Plate" 18K yellow gold case is exceptionally well-preserved, retaining crisp hallmarks, factory finishing, and dimensions throughout with minimal evidence of previous polishing present. The original sloped-glass crystal is in clean condition, exhibiting no wear. The case retains its original blue sapphire cabochon crown. The case back features crisp finishing with deep hallmarks and factoring engravings. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade alligator leather strap with the original 18K yellow gold Cartier Deployant clasp. The watch will fit a 6 3/4-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original "Paris" signed white Roman numeral dial is in exceptionally well-preserved condition, showing no apparent damage or notable age. There is some spidering in the dial finish, however, it is so faint that it is almost invisible under magnification. The original blued hands are also in excellent condition with no age or wear present.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes as a complete set with its original Cartier box, certificate of guarantee, and international service booklet. The watch is functioning and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.