Written By: Melissa Harrel

Midsize Tank Francaise Steel and Gold Watch

One size doesn’t always fit all . . . but Cartier’s on its way with the Cartier Midsize Tank Francaise Steel and Gold Watch W51012Q4.  This versatile, unisex timepiece suits men and women alike and will make the switch from casual to formal without a fuss. This watch is what you’ve been waiting for in a classy bundle that, for once, really does fit.

Description
The Tank collection draws its name from celebrated Renault tank, which debuted in 1917 and made a crucial difference for the allied forces in Europe.  This midsize Cartier timepiece reflects this history in its design. Polished and brushed steel links intersect with 18 kt gold accents to resemble the tracks of a moving tank.  Motion characterizes this timepiece, as the eye follows the bracelet’s grooves up and over the silver grained dial and the barrel shaped steel case.  Hands of rich, blue steel highlight the blue spinel crystal that decorates the gold crown.  Strong, sapphire crystal safeguards the face lined with roman numerals.  A date window at 3 o’clock reminds you, subtly, that this timepiece is for more than admiring.  Cartier’s Caliber 175A Quartz movement forms the hub of this precision timepiece.  Classic and modern, historical and contemporary, the Cartier Midsize Tank Francaise Steel and Gold Watch W51012Q4 captures it all.

Unquestionable quality in material and design won’t have you looking beyond this timepiece for long.  Still, if you’d prefer a rectangular face to the Francaise’s square appearance, visit the Tank Solo line, which provides a narrower effect on the wrist.  If you want to abandon the two toned look, you can do it without leaving the Tank Francaise group. Bracelets of stainless steel, yellow gold, pink gold, and white gold—some with diamond accents—are all options within this line, but material upgrades increase the price to $30,000, depending on what you select.   At $6,700, you’re probably tempted to stay right where you are and enjoy the happy medium of steel and gold, affordability and luxury in the Cartier W51012Q4.

Features

• Swiss made, Cartier Caliber 175A Quartz movement
• Scratch-resistant, anti-glare Sapphire crystal
• Square, silver grained dial with roman numerals
• Sword shaped, blue steel hands
• Stainless steel tonneau case (30.4 x 25.05 mm)
• Bracelet of polished/brushed stainless steel and 18 kt yellow gold
• Octagonal 18 kt yellow gold crown with blue synthetic spinel cabochon
• Water resistance to 30 meters
• Date window at 3 o’clock
• Cartier brand at 12 o’clock and 7 o’clock

Pros

• Reminiscent of historical achievement and discovery
• Backed by Swiss craftsmanship and Cartier’s seal
• Unisex design that will accompany casual and dressy attire
• Complimentary engraving option (when purchased directly from Cartier)
• Classic, yet trendy design blended with luxury materials
• Comes with unlimited warranty on most parts (including a initial two-year warranty covering both parts and labor)
• Comfortable, low-sitting bracelet

Cons

• Roman numerals enhance design but hinder quick readability
• Only authorized Cartier dealers can offer warranty

Trying It On for Size
The Cartier Midsize Tank Francaise Steel and Gold Watch W51012Q4, with its comfort, strength, and elegance, looks and feels good on any wrist. Online retailers drop the price tag to as low as $3,200 . . . but some list this piece above retail.  Watch out for the price when you decide to try this watch on, but don’t be surprised if, when you do, “one size fits all” turns into “one size fits you!”

Additional Details

Retail Price: $6,700
Collection: Tank Francaise (Midsize/Unisex)
Case: tonneau, 18 kt yellow gold and stainless steel, 30.4 x 25.05 mm, 6.7 mm thickness
Movement:  Quartz, Cartier Caliber 175A
Dial: square, pale silver
Bracelet Material: 18 kt gold and polished/brushed stainless steel
Bracelet Dimensions: unisex, 14 mm wide
Bezel: stationary, stainless steel
Closing System: deployment clasp
Display: analog
Collection Variations: large, medium, and small size
Dial Variations: silver grain, pink mother of pearl (small size)
Bracelet/Bezel/Case Variations: steel, yellow gold, white gold, pink gold; diamond accents