Cartier Tank Normale ref 78092 in yellow gold, full set, life time guarantee card

Maker: Cartier
Model: Tank Normal 
Reference: 78092
Case Material: 18k yellow gold
Year: sold November 1979
Serial Number: 780921987
Dial: white; original "Paris" dial
Case Dimensions: 30mm by 22mm diameter
Caliber: mechanical caliber 78-1
Service history: October 2025, +12.1 seconds per day
Bracelet/Strap: Cartier black leather strap and original Cartier 18k yellow gold deloyant buckle
Lug Width: 17mm
Box/Papers: box and papers with original and still valid life time Cartier guarantee card with retailer signature.

The story of the Cartier Tank perfectly captures the mystique that surrounds the maison. Designed by Louis Cartier in 1917, the watch was reportedly inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank used during World War I. The rotating turret inspired the central dial, while the tank’s tracks influenced the straight brancards framing the case. The result was the original Tank, later known as the Tank Normale—a bold, geometric departure from Cartier’s curved designs like the Cartier Tonneau and Cartier Tortue. With its sharp angles, Roman numerals, and sapphire cabochon crown, the design balanced modernity with Cartier’s signature elegance. Later interpretations such as the Cartier Tank Cintrée (1921) and Cartier Tank Louis Cartier (1922) softened the form, but the Tank Normale remained the design that started the revolution.

Despite its importance, the Tank Normale was largely absent from Cartier’s catalogue for decades and was never part of the Cartier Collection Privée Cartier Paris releases. That changed in 2023 when Cartier revived the model within its Cartier Privé line at Watches and Wonders Geneva, unveiling five limited-edition versions and reigniting enthusiasm among collectors.

The example presented here is a yellow gold Tank Normale ref. 78092, produced between 1973 and around 1980. Only about 2,500 pieces were made during that period across four variations. This particular watch is a “Mark 3,” identifiable by the flat “A” in the Cartier signature at 12 o’clock and the hidden Cartier signature at 7 o’clock.

What makes this example particularly special is that it is offered as a full set and includes its original Cartier lifetime guarantee card. The card is stamped by a Japanese retailer and bears a serial number matching the watch. This lifetime guarantee remains valid indefinitely and can be used at Cartier boutiques worldwide for a complimentary movement service (note that Cartier may replace the original dial if the watch is serviced through them). A valid lifetime guarantee card with matching serial numbers is extremely rare and highly collectible in its own right.

This Tank Normale is in overall excellent condition. The case remains strong with thick brancards and sharp edges, showing only light surface scratches consistent with age. The side bevels are clearly visible, and the brushed surfaces on the top and bottom of the case are well preserved. The original “Paris” signed dial is in very good condition with no major blemishes or discoloration. Paris-signed dials are particularly rare, as many were replaced with “Swiss Made” versions during servicing by Cartier. Like many white lacquer dials produced by Cartier in the 1970s and 1980s, the dial shows some minor hairline cracks that are only visible at certain angles. The original black painted Roman numerals remain crisp and attractive.

The caliber 78-1 movement was last serviced in late 2025 and is running well. The watch is fitted with a black Cartier leather strap and its original vintage 18k yellow gold deployant clasp, which is itself rare and highly desirable. The watch is accompanied by its box, papers, and the original Cartier lifetime guarantee card valid at Cartier boutiques worldwide.

Ships from Japan.