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Cartier Tank Basculante 2386 - White Roman Dial

Details

The Mechanical Pivot

The Tank Basculante is one of the most clever designs in the Cartier archive. While the silhouette could be mistaken for the classic Tank, the reference 2386 features a unique swing-frame case that allows the entire dial to flip over within its housing. Originally designed to protect the crystal during sports, it has become a sought-after detail for collectors who appreciate an interactive element to their watch. It offers the same elegant proportions as a standard Tank but with a level of engineering that sets it apart from more common rectangular models.

A Deep Cut In Design

This model remains a relatively unknown reference compared to the heavy hitters like the Tank Louis or the Santos. It is a piece for someone who values the Cartier aesthetic but wants something with a specific mechanical story. The signature sapphire cabochon is positioned at twelve o’clock on the inner frame, serving as the handle for the flipping mechanism. The white Roman dial remains the definitive look for the brand, ensuring that despite the complex case construction, the watch stays grounded in traditional luxury.

Original Details And Verified Performance

This example is in very good condition and shows that it was well maintained. The stainless steel case retains its sharp edges and the flipping mechanism functions smoothly with a solid click. It remains on its original Cartier leather strap and is secured by the correct factory buckle. We have recently replaced the battery and the quartz movement is running strong after passing our test bench. It is a honest example that is ready for the next owner to wear immediately.

The Interactive Daily Dress Watch

This works because it carries the prestige of a Cartier Tank while offering a unique mechanical feature that serves as a genuine conversation starter. Its dimensions make it a versatile choice that wears comfortably and stays flat against the wrist. It functions as a sophisticated dress watch that avoids being predictable. It is the right move for a collector who wants a classic design that hides a bit of a party trick within its geometry.

Key Specs

Reference: 2386

Model: Tank Basculante

Year: 1990s–2000s

Movement: Quartz

Case Size: 22x32mm

Bracelet: Original Leather Strap & Buckle

Dial: White Roman

Metal: Stainless Steel

SKU: 484

History

Louis Cartier designed the Tank in 1917, inspired by the aerial view of a Renault FT tank on the Western Front — its parallel "rails" mimicking the tracks, its rectangular body echoing the vehicle's profile. The watch was introduced in 1919 and immediately claimed its place as one of the most significant case designs in watchmaking history.

The Tank has never gone out of production, and its list of admirers reads like a century of cultural history: Jackie Kennedy, Andy Warhol, Princess Diana, Yves Saint Laurent. It is the watch of the intelligentsia, the creative, the quietly powerful.

The Tank Must — introduced in the 1970s in vermeil (gold-plated silver) — democratized the design, bringing the silhouette to a new generation. The Tank Louis Cartier in 18-karat gold represents the elevated end. The Tank Solo in stainless steel is the accessible entry point. All three carry the same essential idea: that a rectangle of precious metal can be more beautiful than any complication.


What Our Clients Say About Us

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!!!