Celebrating the momentous milestone of 100 years in the retail biz’, Watches of Switzerland has called upon Cartier to create a limited-edition Tank Louis Cartier watch.

The Tank Louis Cartier timepiece has been a go-to for dapper lads around the globe since the premier edition was designed by Louis Cartier, the eldest grandson of the maison’s founder, in 1917. It was introduced to the market in 1922, and has since become the preferred chronograph of the artistic and cultural avant-garde, certifying its status as a true pinnacle in the world of watches.

Stripped-back in its geometric design, it features an elegant, 007-suited finish with taught rectangular lines, further distinguished by gently bevelled ​​edges at the tops of the lugs. And while there’s a clear dedication to staying as faithful to the 1922 edition as possible, the timepiece is a hybrid of the past and the present. Interweaving its vintage Art Deco-inspired design with modern movement mechanisms (1917MC, a Manufacture Cartier calibre), this chronograph comes with a dark-navy alligator strap and blued-steel hands, drawing attention to the subtle radiance of its brushed gold dial. At the centre of its crown lies a vivid sapphire cabochon, and the case back is engraved with a special Watches of Switzerland script signifying the 70-year relationship between the retailer and the maison.

“We are thrilled to commemorate our 100th anniversary with the launch of the exclusive Tank Louis Cartier,” says Brian Duffy, CEO of Watches of Switzerland Group, in a statement. “This relationship with Cartier, one of the most esteemed watch brands in the world, represents our shared passion for horology and our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship to our clients.”

“We are honoured to present this special timepiece which embodies the spirit of Cartier London’s rich heritage in watchmaking and innovation in shaped watches,” Laurent Feniou, managing director of Cartier UK, adds. “We are delighted to reveal a unique design of the Tank watch and are thrilled to share this with Watches of Switzerland for their centenary celebration.”  

Only 100 Tank Louis Cartier timepieces will be up for grabs so don’t forget to set your watch to Cartier time.

Available for purchase exclusively in the UK at Watches of Switzerland showrooms from June, with pre-orders available now, clients can view the Limited Edition Tank Louis Cartier watch in person at the Watches of Switzerland Regent Street, Battersea, Knightsbridge, Brent Cross, Broadgate, and Canary Wharf showrooms, or online via its Virtual Boutique. Photography courtesy of Cartier.

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