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1975 Cartier Tank Palissandre de Rio 20611 - Brazilian Rosewood & Vermeil

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An Organic Departure From The Norm
In the mid-1970s, during a period of bold design experimentation, Cartier created one of the most unusual and daring iterations of its most iconic watch. The Tank Palissandre de Rio was a short-lived project, produced for only about a year between 1975 and 1976. By cladding the classic Tank form in Brazilian Rosewood, Cartier broke from its own convention of using precious metals, creating a watch that was warm, organic, and entirely unexpected. With a total production of only 3,000 pieces, it remains one of the rarest Tank references ever made.
The Definition Of Unconventional
The design's unconventional nature is defined by its materials. The use of vermeil, or gold-plated metal, is paired with panels of rich Brazilian Rosewood along the case sides and across the entire dial. This was a radical departure for Cartier, which had built its reputation on precious metals and stones. The natural grain of the wood ensures that no two examples are exactly alike, giving each piece a unique character. This reference stands apart from the entire Tank lineage, making it a definitive choice for a collector who appreciates the brand's more adventurous side.
An Honest Example From A Daring Era
The Brazilian Rosewood dial and case panels are well-preserved, showcasing the deep, natural grain of the wood. The vermeil case is in good condition, consistent with a watch from this period. It is fitted on a leather strap with its original Cartier buckle, completing the authentic presentation of this rare and short-lived reference. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
For The Collector Who Has Seen It All
This is not the standard Tank that everyone recognizes. It is a specific and intentional choice for someone who understands the deeper history of Cartier and wants a watch that tells a different story. It is a conversation piece that sidesteps the typical formality of the model in favor of something more artistic and experimental. The daily ritual of winding the manual movement creates a direct connection to a unique chapter in the brand's history, a moment when Cartier proved it could look beyond its own traditions.
Key Specs
Reference: 20611
Model: Tank Palissandre de Rio
Year: 1975
Movement: Manual
Case Size: 25 X 30mm
Bezel: Brazilian Rosewood, Vermeil
Bracelet: Leather with Original Buckle
Dial: Brazilian Rosewood
Metal: Vermeil, Brazilian Rosewood
SKU: 1240
Vintage 1975 Cartier Tank Palissandre de Rio Vermeil Rosewood Dial Manual 25mm
1975 Cartier Tank Palissandre de Rio 20611 - Brazilian Rosewood & Vermeil Sale price$8,000.00 USD

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Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!