Cartier Tank History: Rudolf Valentino & Dachshund

MTF · 2013-04-14T11:01:43Z

Uncover the surprising connection between Rudolf Valentino, a dachshund, and Cartier s early history in MTF s Cartier Connections part 1 .

MTF

WPS member · Cartier forum

5 replies6879 views6 photos

MTF's 'Cartier Connections part 1' delves into the unexpected historical links between iconic figures and Cartier's legacy. This initial installment teases a fascinating narrative, inviting readers to uncover the surprising common thread connecting a Hollywood star and a miniature dachshund through the world of Cartier.

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The Fascinating Meanderings of Cartier Connections part 1

What is the connection between this famous Hollywood movie star...and this miniature red long-haired dachshund?

"Duchess of Crystal Alice" (J.K.C.)

This man has something to do with it.....

Louis-François Cartier

Although Louis is a traditional Cartier-family name, this photo is not of his grandson, Louis Cartier, whose wristwatch designs heralded the start of the 20th century, including the Tank that Rudolf Valentino wore in that iconic film 'The Sheikh' (1921).

In 1847, Louis-François Cartier was only 28 years old when he bought the workshop from his mentor – Adolphe Picard and set forth his modest business at 29 rue Montorgueil in Paris.

Despite his youth, the business flourished and in 1853 he moved the workshop and accepts retail clients at 5 rue Neuve-des-Petits-Champs, Paris.

The 'big break', in modern parlance, was in 1859 because Cartier was patronised by Empress Eugénie and Princess Mathilde at new premises in the 'society district' of Paris – 9 boulevard des Italiens.

The Cartier Tank watch was to appear later; designed in 1917 but marketed in 1919.

Obviously the Great War (1914 - 1918) got in the way and yet was the inspiration for the design, so the story goes.

So what is the connection between Rudolf Valentino and the little red dachshund?

They both chose Cartier

Cartier Paris Collection Prive: Tank a Vis Two Time Zone

One movement runs both time indications.

Regards,

MTF

Cartier Connections series [CLICK to re-direct]

Cartier Connections part 1: The Sheikh and The Dachshund

Cartier Connections part 2: Of Wings and Skeletons

Cartier Connections part 3: Tokyo to Paris and back

Cartier Connections part 4: A Tale of Two Doggies (Cartier Tank MC)

Cartier Connections part 5: Carbon Crystal Dreams and Reality

Cartier Connections part 6: Of Feathers and Hammers - Cartier ID TWO

This message has been edited by MTF on 2013-11-19 23:16:03

Key Points from the Discussion

The Cartier CPCP (Collection Privée Cartier Paris) range, which included dual time single movement Tank à Vis models, has been discontinued and replaced by the Cartier HH (Haute Horlogerie) range as their specialty watch collection.
The CPCP collection is expected to appreciate in value over time due to its unique nature.
The Cartier Tank watch, designed in 1917 and marketed in 1919, was inspired by the Great War (1914-1918).
The post highlights that both Rudolf Valentino and the Duchess of Crystal Alice (a dachshund) share a connection through their choice of Cartier.

The Discussion

AnthonyTsai

Apr 15, 2013

I don't think I've seen this Cartier model in the store before

Is this a discontinued model? Looks great IMO. - AT

MTF

Apr 15, 2013

Cartier CPCP Range discontinued

Anthony, The CPCP range has been discontinued by Cartier, of which, the dual time single movement Tank a Vis were part. Cartier also had dual movement dual time watches in the past but of course, those went out of synchronisation for the minutes hands. Cartier HH range has taken over as their specialty watch range. Regards, MTF

kpe0007

Apr 16, 2013

good post

I feel that the CPCP collection will, appreciate in value over time. They are unique. Yes I have a few.

Alvin Hong

Apr 17, 2013

I think it looks best on Doggie

Very discerning.

MTF

Apr 28, 2013

Well.....she is the Duchess of Crystal Alice (J.K.C.) (nt)

:-) MTF