The New Year & New Tank Anglaise

Jan 15, 2015,22:20 PM
 

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Apologies that this greeting is so belated. The New Year came for me with a big surprise. After admiring the Tank Anglaise since it was first introduced, I refused to try it on. The only model that would be for me is the XL with the in-house caliber 1904MC. But I said that it is too large for a Cartier Tank watch, instead I settled for the beautiful Tank Solo, one in yellow gold and one in stainless steel with bracelet. For some reason they did not get much wrist time, and I ended up selling them. So for a few months I have been without a Cartier and, even more importantly, without a Cartier Tank.

Last Sunday, knowing that I would eventually get another Cartier, I went downtown looking. I love the look of the Ballon Bleu, the Tank Francaise and the Tank MC, But none seemed to suit my wrist. Reluctantly, I tried on the Tank Anglaise XL. VoilĂ ! I couldn't believe how well it looked - and fitted - on my wrist. I paid for it, and was out of the shop in less than ten minutes! The moral here, of course, is that you must try on all the models.

A few of my favourite photos:

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The gorgeous bracelet. Each link is rounded at the bottom edges, and I think this has been inspired by the shape of the links on the Tank Francaise. Of course, the lovely seamless butterfly clasp:

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The unusual and lovely hidden crown, kind of inspired by the Ballon Blue I think. I find it much easier to wind and set time and date than one might think. The case is slightly curved and the watch hugs the wrist most comfortably:

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Fit and finish of both case and bracelet are exquisite, with polished and brushed surfaces:

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A few favourite shots taken at dusk:

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The two tracks, the railroad and the track with the Roman numerals are raised slightly from the guilloche which gives a unique look:

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I always love the blue cabochon on the crown. In combination with the blued hands, the gorgeous silver dial are some of the many reasons I found it difficult to live without a Cartier Tank in my collection. I love how this watch has evolved, and I see some parts of many Cartier pieces which I admire. Because of the size of the XL, I realize it is not for everyone. But the sheer beauty and the research and development that have gone into this stunning watch are not  to be denied. Matter of fact, this piece also gives me an even greater respect for the beautiful Tank Solo. I can see that in all Cartier models there  is no compromise in quality.

The outstanding caliber 1904MC is visible through the exhibition caseback, which I haven't yet photographed in a way I find acceptable. I found the movement, which 
was in my Calibre, to be most accurate.

Thank You for reading my report. I am gratified to share my observations of this beautiful watch with you.
Carl














More posts: Ballon BleuTankTank AnglaiseTank FrancaiseTank MCTank Solo

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Oops Kristian, I think I missed your post!

 
 By: foversta : February 3rd, 2015-11:39
Thanks a lot for this comprehensive presentation. The point is I'm not a big fan of the Tank Anglaise, I have to confess it. But your review depicts it under a new light! Thanks. Fx