The "Cartier Must Tank" that arrived today features a black Roman numeral dial, exclusively available in the manual-winding model lineup.
Its short production period and rarity make it a highly valued and hard-to-find item.
Cartier's few black dials were, until around the 1980s,
limited to this Must Tank and a few other models.
The color black is therefore very rare and uncommon for Cartier products.
Hence, I truly feel that its rarity has been highly appreciated in recent years.
Black dials tend to give a strong sporty impression,
and are not common even among dress watches from various brands.
Given that it was an era when matching the dial color to the case color was standard,
it exudes an ineffable sublimity when viewed today.
The dial has a lacquer finish, giving it a unique glossy texture.
As it's a painted finish, it often develops cracks with age,
so cracks can be seen on many dials from this era.
This particular piece also shows cracks throughout,
which can be considered a vintage-like "damage."
While shiny and beautiful vintage watches are appealing,
age-related damage is unique and proves that no two pieces are alike.
While case scratches are mostly due to use,
the dial's condition also reflects the quality of that era,
allowing us to feel the passage of time in each such detail.
The combination of black and gold is very luxurious,
and is still seen in many watches today.
However, this Must Tank uses silver for the indices and hands,
softening the strong impression of the black and gold combination.
The slightly softer impression is partly due to it being a vintage watch,
but I believe this color combination also plays a significant role.
Among black dials, the deepest and strongest impression is truly exceptional when worn.
In contrast to the feminine impression of the classic ivory dial,
the Tank, an artistic timepiece, exudes a rugged, masculine impression.
Since the dial is essentially the face of a watch,
it's clear that a single color can drastically alter its impression.
Cartier's products, which skillfully incorporate the mood of the times,
allow for various expressions and impressions by changing the dial of the same watch,
and the Must Tank, with its rich dial variations,
is a watch that truly embodies this.
Despite its rarity, this particular piece is offered at a price that reflects its condition.
However, due to the extremely rapid increase in procurement costs,
this might be the last time it's available for under 400,000 yen.
As it's a popular item sought by many,
don't miss this opportunity!
