The New Cartier Tank Must Introduces Interesting New Ideas Cleverly Packaged In Its Classic Design

It goes without saying that Cartier is a brand that is filled to the brim with heritage value. From their role as the creators of the very first wristwatch back in 1904 to Jeanne Toussaint and the Panthère, and even the watch that survived a crash and was remade into a full collection, deformity and all. And if you ask any enthusiast, the one Cartier all collectors should have in their watch box, it would be the Cartier Tank.

First seen in 1917, this rectangular Cartier was named Tank as its shape, particularly how the sides are seamlessly merged into the lugs is reminisce of tanks and their tracks. Needless to say, with so much history behind the collection, the Cartier Tank has largely remained unapologetically classic in its nature. With the new Tank Must collection, however, we see Cartier taking a bold step to experiment with new ideas and a more affordable price tag, perhaps to appeal to a new generation of watch enthusiasts.

At first glance, this is the Tank we all know and love. The recognisable case silhouette, the classic roman numerals arranged in a decidedly Cartier fashion. It is only upon closer inspection that the innovation of the watch is revealed. Unlike most quartz movements that require a battery change, this new Tank Must rely solely on the sun for power. The true genius of its design is the fact that the photovoltaic cells are hidden underneath the dial and it is only through the invisible perforation of the Roman numerals that the sunlight can reach the panel underneath. The movement is called SolarBeat and has a lifespan of over 16 years.

Yet another interesting part about the Tank Must is the fact that you can pair it with a unique strap that looks like leather but is actually a comfortable strap, composed of around 40% plant matter, produced using waste from apples grown for the food industry in Switzerland, Germany and Italy. This strap has a reduced carbon footprint (6 times less) and saves water (up to 10 litres) and energy (approximately 80 smartphone charges) compared to the manufacture of a calfskin strap.

The Cartier Tank Must in large size with a black non-leather strap with SolarBeat photovoltaic movement starts at from USD 2,610 (Approx. MYR 11,000)