Cartier - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII Hong Kong Friday, May 24, 2024 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Cartier
    Year: Circa 2022
    Reference No: WHTA0015
    Case No: 4390, No. 9/100
    Model Name: Tank Chinoise, Cartier Privé
    Material: Platinum
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 9627 MC, 21 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: Platinum Cartier pin buckle
    Dimensions: 31.5 mm length x 28 mm width
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by undated Cartier warranty cards, blank Cartier certificate stamped Cartier Uniwalk Shenzhen China, blank Cartier Certificate of Origin, additional grey crocodile strap, red folder, instruction manual, product literature, loupe, adjustment tool, cloth, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 2022, Cartier celebrated the 100th anniversary of the original Tank Chinoise, a redesigned version of the Tank watch that drew inspiration from traditional Chinese architecture. Throughout its century-long existence, the Chinoise has remained an intriguing variation where the case design offers more depth compared to the original Tank Normale introduced in 1919. To commemorate this significant milestone, Cartier released a series of novelties in their Cartier Privé lineup. Among them, the present example stands out with its striking design.

    Upon first glance, one is captivated by the skeletonized dial and vibrant color combination. Interestingly, instead of Roman numerals, which are often associated with Cartier's skeleton movements, the bridges and base plate of this watch have been openworked to form a Chinese architectural inspired pattern that complements the overall case construction. The use of cobalt blue and burgundy lacquer colors creates a yin and yang image of a circle within a square that signifies balance and harmony.

    Limited to only 100 pieces, this particular iteration is encased in the noble metal platinum. It is kept in excellent condition and comes complete with its full set of accessories. Numbered 9, this Cartier Tank Chinoise represents the enduring history of the collection and holds a special place in the hearts of collectors.

  • Artist Biography

    Cartier

    French

    With the Constitution of 1848 came a new standard for luxury in France. Founded one year prior by Louis-Francois Cartier, the house of Cartier was one of the first to use platinum in jewelry making. This incredibly expensive material became the stepping-stone for Cartier to experiment in form, mechanisms and attitude. It helped men move from pocket watches to wristwatches, effectively making the watch much more functional and prominent in a man's overall wardrobe.

    Cartier did not only touch on functionality. Inspired by a commissioned painting by George Barbier featuring a black panther at the feet of an elegantly bejeweled woman, Cartier began incorporating wild animals in his designs—most notably, Cartier Panthère rings, bangle bracelets and watches. Yet it wasn't until the late 1960s that the house of Cartier debuted their iconic yellow and rose gold LOVE collection, which includes the famous bracelet that only a special screwdriver can open. 

    View More Works

Σ993

Ref. WHTA0015
A very rare and elegant limited edition platinum rectangular-shaped skeletonized wristwatch with warranty and presentation box, numbered 9 of a limited edition of 100 pieces

Circa 2022
31.5 mm length x 28 mm width
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$160,000 - 320,000 
€19,200-38,300
$20,500-41,000

Sold for HK$419,100

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2031
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+ 852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII

Hong Kong Auction 24 - 25 May 2024