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Cartier Tank - Lemon Roman Numeral Dial

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Details

The dial makes the watch

This Tank Must Classic from the late 1970s to early 1980s stands out for one reason first. The lemon Roman dial. It is bright, warm, and immediately recognizable once you see it in person. Against the electroplated case, the color gives the watch far more personality than the more common cream or white executions.

Why this version works

The Tank Must line was Cartier opening its design language to a broader audience, but pieces like this still carry real presence. The lemon dial with black Roman numerals and minute track keeps the layout classic, while the color shifts the mood entirely. Blued hands finish it properly and keep it grounded in traditional Cartier codes.

It is the classic Tank size that works exactly the way it should on the wrist.

What you need to know

Condition is very good for age. The dial is excellent with no scratches or marks. The case shows light wear consistent with time but presents cleanly. The crystal is clear. The watch is fitted on a new leather strap. Mechanically, it is running well after passing by our test bench. 

A Tank with real personality

This is not the standard Must Tank you see everywhere. The lemon Roman dial changes the tone completely and gives it character without compromising the design.

For someone who appreciates classic Cartier but wants something slightly less common, this one delivers color, presence, and that unmistakable Tank profile in a format that still feels easy to wear.

 

Every watch we offer has been authenticated and mechanically looked over to ensure immediate usability.

Bracelet extension, cutting, or sizing is available upon request through our professional in-house jewelers.

Key Specs

Model: Tank Must Classic

Year: 1970s–1980s

Movement: Manual wind

Case Size: 23 × 30mm

Bezel: Gold-plated 925 silver

Bracelet: Leather strap

Dial: Lemon Roman numeral dial

SKU: 180

History

The Tank emerged during the First World War when Louis Cartier drew inspiration from the new Renault FT‑17 tanks.  In 1917 he sketched a watch with straight brancards flanking a rectangular case, echoing the treads and hull of the tracked vehicles .  A prototype was presented to General John Pershing, and the first production pieces appeared in 1919 .  Unlike most wristwatches of the era, which were adapted pocket watches, the Tank was conceived from the outset as a wristwatch for men and women, signalling a modern approach to timekeeping.The design philosophy of the Tank is rooted in simplicity and proportion.  The rectangular case is bounded by vertical brancards, while a clear dial bears Roman numerals and a railroad minute track reminiscent of Parisian architecture .  Blued steel hands and a sapphire cabochon crown became recurring elements, and the overall dimensions were guided by the Golden Ratio .  These features create a formal clarity that distinguishes the Tank from round watches and give it versatility across genders and eras.When it was introduced, the Tank reflected cultural currents of the early twentieth century: mechanisation, the decline of ornate Victorian aesthetics and the emergence of Art Deco geometry.  Its clean lines resonated with artists and intellectuals seeking modern forms.  Over the decades Cartier developed numerous variations—Tank Cintrée, Chinoise, Louis Cartier, Américaine and Française—that adjusted case curvature, size and detailing but always preserved the original rectangular silhouette.  Such continuity allowed the model to evolve without losing its identity.Collectors value the Tank for its historical significance and design purity.  It stands as one of the earliest purpose‑built wristwatches and as a symbol of the shift from pocket to wrist timekeeping.  Its timeless form, adaptable to both formal and casual contexts, continues to attract enthusiasts who appreciate Cartier’s blend of jewellery craftsmanship and watchmaking heritage.

Cartier Tank - Lemon Roman Numeral Dial
Cartier Tank - Lemon Roman Numeral Dial Sale price$3,500.00 USD

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!!!