CARTIER LM TANK LC Ref.78086 Paris MK2 Dial

This hand-wound Tank, crafted in solid 18K gold, showcases refined classical design with an emphasis on elegant proportions. The off-white dial features black Roman numerals in crisp print and a railway-style minute track, offering a precise and orderly impression. At six o’clock sits the “Paris” signature, on what is known as an MK2 dial without the secret signature. The sharply pointed apex of the “A” in “CARTIER” is a typographic detail characteristic of this period. Blued steel baton hands add a touch of vibrancy, while the interplay of gold, black, white, and blue delivers a harmonious and sophisticated balance. The crown retains its elongated spinel cabochon from the 1970s, and the watch is accompanied by Cartier’s original solid 18K gold deployant clasp (non-adjustable). The strap must be custom-ordered to fit the wrist, with an additional cost required.

The dial is in mint condition, free of cracks, with no loss to its printing or indexes. The hands preserve their vivid blue tone, showing no signs of deterioration. The case exhibits only minimal handling wear, with sharp and clearly legible engravings on the caseback. Particularly notable is the exceptional preservation of the spinel cabochon crown, which remains entirely free of wear or damage, retaining its original form. Serviced and disassembled by our watchmaker.

This model represents one of the high points of the classical Tank design. Stripped of excess, its purity of form and noble materials quietly embody Cartier’s elegance. Since its introduction in 1919, the Tank has adhered to its fundamental silhouette, captivating generations of enthusiasts with its timeless design and practicality. The combination of a hand-wound caliber and an 18K gold case is especially rare today, further enhancing its standing as a collector’s piece. With its serene refinement, it remains a versatile companion, equally suited for daily wear or as a treasured addition to a collection.

BRAND

Though Cartier is now celebrated as one of the world’s foremost jewelers, it was also among the pioneers of modern wristwatches. In 1904—when pocket watches still dominated—Cartier was one of the first to create a purpose-built wristwatch. The name “Tank” refers to the armored vehicle, inspired by the Renault tanks that played a decisive role in World War I, serving as the design’s conceptual origin.