Cartier Tank Must Silver Medium - ref. 2416 - c. 1990

Cartier Tank Must: same but different.

Description

While the vermeil Tank Must is widely seen, here is an all-silver version. Although this Tank Must (ref. 2416) takes its stylistic cues from its predecessor, the Tank Louis, it nonetheless asserts a new design, less strict, yet just as elegant and refined. The alternating Roman numerals are rendered in blue, echoing the blued hands. Its size enhances the model’s finesse and discretion, making it ideal for a woman’s wrist.

One of its key advantages lies in its tones: the combination of silver and blue pairs effortlessly with anything, regardless of outfit, season, or occasion. Whether worn on a dark or colourful strap, as shown here with its original Cartier strap, this Must is the perfect companion. Of course, Françoise Paris can help you to change the strap if needed. The deployant clasp, also in silver, provides an added level of comfort that should not be overlooked.

Why did Françoise choose it?

Large, medium, small, solid gold, gold-plated, classic dial, coloured lacquered dial, on understated or vibrant leather, whatever the variation, Françoise loves the Tank, all Tanks! While she has a particular fondness for coloured lacquered dials, she immediately fell for this one, which combines the best of both worlds: the accessible price point of a Must, with the originality of its alternating blue Roman numeral dial, which lightens the overall appearance. She appreciates elegant watches with that subtle detail that sets them apart.

Whether monochrome or adorned with geometric motifs, with or without hour markers, small or large, there is always a Tank Must to match one’s personality. Françoise also values being able to offer a silver version, less commonly seen on the wrist, yet just as essential.

History

The first Tank, known as the Normale and designed in 1917, gave way in 1922 to the Tank Louis Cartier, whose design remains unchanged to this day.

The "Must de Cartier" collection was launched in 1973 by Robert Hocq and Alain-Dominique Perrin, appointed Chief Executive of this new entity. This creative line enabled the Maison Cartier not only to expand its offering, but also to introduce a more accessible and unconventional range, thereby democratising the luxury sector while preserving its distinctive codes.

Following lighters, pens and leather goods, the Must watch made its appearance in 1976-77. The vermeil Tank was the first to be introduced, bearing the inscription "Must de Cartier" along with the double "C" on the dial. While the earliest models were fitted with manual movements, quartz quickly became the standard for these practical, easy-to-wear everyday watches.

Unlike Cartier watches in yellow gold, those in the Must line, crafted in silver, vermeil or steel, offer a wide variety of cases and dials. Sometimes colourful, sometimes enhanced with geometric patterns, these designs breathe new life into classic models. Its softer lines and revised design echo the Tank Louis Cartier—with a twist.