1970s Cartier Tank Louis Paris Dial (Ref. 78086)
- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History & Significance
The Cartier Tank is one of the most enduring designs in watchmaking, and the Paris-signed examples from the late 20th century remain especially compelling to collectors. Reference 78086 sits firmly in the lineage of classic mechanical Tanks, produced during a period when Cartier was still emphasizing restrained proportions, precious metal cases, and traditional finishing. The Paris dial signature places this watch within the era when Cartier maintained a strong connection to its historic workshops and design language, before later standardization across global production.
What makes this example stand out is its condition and originality. The dial shows none of the crazing or degradation that often affects Paris dials from this period, preserving the crisp Roman numerals and balanced chemin de fer minute track exactly as intended. Combined with a solid gold case and the presence of the original strap and solid gold Cartier buckle, this is the kind of Tank that refle
Writer’s Thoughts
This is one of those Tanks that immediately feels right on the wrist. The proportions are spot on, and the dial has a calm, almost architectural clarity to it. The fact that the Paris dial is completely clean makes a huge difference; it keeps the watch feeling sharp rather than fragile. I also love seeing these with their original gold buckles still intact. It’s a small detail, but it adds a lot to the watch's overall integrity. This feels like a Tank that’s been worn thoughtfully rather than overworked, and that kind of honesty is hard to beat.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.
Brand: Cartier
Model: Tank Louis ref. 78086
Year: Circa 1970s
Case Material: 18k yellow gold
Case Size: 23 mm by 30 mm
Dial: Paris signed dial with original blued steel hands
Crystal: Mineral
Movement: Manual wind
Strap: Original strap
Buckle/Clasp: Cartier yellow gold buckle
Contents: Watch only
Case: Solid gold case appears possibly unpolished with light surface wear consistent with age.
Crystal: Clean with no visible chips or cracks.
Dial: Mint condition Paris dial with no crazing or discoloration.
Hands: Original blued hands in excellent condition.
Strap/Bracelet: Original Cartier leather strap showing light, honest wear.
Buckle/Clasp: Original solid gold Cartier buckle with light surface wear.
1970s Cartier Tank Louis Paris Dial (Ref. 78086)
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All our watches are carefully inspected to insure and guarantee the authenticity.
The Details
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- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History & Significance
The Cartier Tank is one of the most enduring designs in watchmaking, and the Paris-signed examples from the late 20th century remain especially compelling to collectors. Reference 78086 sits firmly in the lineage of classic mechanical Tanks, produced during a period when Cartier was still emphasizing restrained proportions, precious metal cases, and traditional finishing. The Paris dial signature places this watch within the era when Cartier maintained a strong connection to its historic workshops and design language, before later standardization across global production.
What makes this example stand out is its condition and originality. The dial shows none of the crazing or degradation that often affects Paris dials from this period, preserving the crisp Roman numerals and balanced chemin de fer minute track exactly as intended. Combined with a solid gold case and the presence of the original strap and solid gold Cartier buckle, this is the kind of Tank that refle
Writer’s Thoughts
This is one of those Tanks that immediately feels right on the wrist. The proportions are spot on, and the dial has a calm, almost architectural clarity to it. The fact that the Paris dial is completely clean makes a huge difference; it keeps the watch feeling sharp rather than fragile. I also love seeing these with their original gold buckles still intact. It’s a small detail, but it adds a lot to the watch's overall integrity. This feels like a Tank that’s been worn thoughtfully rather than overworked, and that kind of honesty is hard to beat.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.
Brand: Cartier
Model: Tank Louis ref. 78086
Year: Circa 1970s
Case Material: 18k yellow gold
Case Size: 23 mm by 30 mm
Dial: Paris signed dial with original blued steel hands
Crystal: Mineral
Movement: Manual wind
Strap: Original strap
Buckle/Clasp: Cartier yellow gold buckle
Contents: Watch only
Case: Solid gold case appears possibly unpolished with light surface wear consistent with age.
Crystal: Clean with no visible chips or cracks.
Dial: Mint condition Paris dial with no crazing or discoloration.
Hands: Original blued hands in excellent condition.
Strap/Bracelet: Original Cartier leather strap showing light, honest wear.
Buckle/Clasp: Original solid gold Cartier buckle with light surface wear.