Written by Kiley Jacques

If you are a man with a sensibility for 1930’s New York, you may find the Cartier Tank Americaine 18k Yellow Gold Men’s Watch W2603156 exceptional for its nostalgic air. This member of Cartier’s French-style wares ranks among the watchmaker’s widely cherished classics. It is a real throwback in time. Favored by many, this timepiece sports a handsome, guilloché silver-grained dial; black Roman numeral scales; the company’s signature solid 18k gold arched case; and a comely crocdile-skin, brown leather strap. For anyone seeking a true Cartier classic, consider this Tank Americaine.

Since their inception in 1917, Cartier’s Tank models have proven popular. The W2603156 is no exception. Distinct features of the collection include: handcrafted bracelets and square cases; crisp black Roman numerals; and the well-recognized, blue sword-shaped hands.  Cartier offers the Tank Americaine as one of its more innovative and distinctive pieces. In 1932, a first-of-its-kind water resistant design came to fruition in response to a special order made by the Pasha of Marrakesh; the convenient feature remains among Cartier watches’ most desirable attributes.The Tank Americaine W2603156 is notable for its long, rectangular gold case; adjustable, crocodile-skin leather strap; 18k gold tang buckle; and exaggerated, somewhat convex lines.

Tang Buckle: A Classic Convenience

Features:

• 18k yellow gold octagonal crown with blue sapphire Cabochon
• Scratch resistant sapphire mineral crystal
• polished 18k gold case
• Automatic movement
• 7″ adjustable brown leather crocodile-textured strap
• 18k gold tang buckle
• 1.75″ x 1.0″ solid 18k gold case
• Water resistant up to 100′
• 120 Cartier caliber

Though its retail value is $15,000, the Tank Americaine W2603156 is available for discounted prices at: Authenticwatches.com ($12,950); Startoftime.com ($13,995); Prestigetime.com ($13,050); Watchesonnet.com ($13,495) – among other sellers. To find it online you may also search for “Model # 2603156.” Note, too, variations of this piece include: Cartier Tank Americaine models W2603256 and W2603556; and Cartier Tank Solo 1018855.

Serving royalty since Napoleon III’s court in 1851, Cartier is one of the oldest watch and jewelry makers in the world. And the Cartier Tank Americaine 18k Yellow Gold Men’s Watch W2603156 is one example of why. It is among the maker’s time capturing pieces, as it calls to mind a bygone era. Its celebrated characteristics include its famous rectangular 18k gold case; octagonal crown set; artisan-made, textured leather strap; and expertly crafted mechanisms – all of which combine to make this Tank Americaine an exquisitely smart choice for any man looking to distinguish himself as a lover of time and ago.

Tank Americaine W2603556

Tank Americaine W2603256