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Cartier Tank Louis 78086 - 18K Yellow Gold White Roman "Paris" Dial

Details

The Enduring Icon Of Watchmaking

The Cartier Tank Louis is a direct descendant of the original Tank design from 1917, a watch that imposed order and geometry onto the wristwatch at a time when most cases were either round or oval. This specific reference, the 78086, is one of the most sought-after iterations, representing the purest expression of Louis Cartier's original intent: a manually-wound, yellow gold timepiece with the iconic Roman numeral dial. It is a design so complete that it has required almost no revision in the century that followed, solidifying its place as a definitive form of the dressed watch.

A "Paris" Dial With Exceptional Presence

This example features the highly desirable "Paris" signed dial, a detail that signifies its origin from Cartier's historic Rue de la Paix boutique. The crisp white dial with its classic Roman numerals offers remarkable legibility and an understated elegance. This particular configuration, with its manual-wind movement, connects directly to the earliest and most collectible Tank models, offering a tactile experience that modern automatic movements cannot replicate.

Excellent Condition, Ready To Wear

This Cartier Tank Louis is in excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case is particularly strong and well-preserved. It comes fitted with its original strap, which shows visible signs of wear including creasing and edge wear, and a gold Cartier buckle. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

The Quintessential Dress Watch

For someone seeking the ultimate dress watch, the Tank Louis is a peerless choice. Its timeless design transcends trends, making it as relevant today as it was a century ago. The manual-wind movement invites a daily ritual, creating a unique bond between owner and machine. This watch makes a confident statement of refined taste, perfect for any occasion where understated luxury is paramount.

Key Specs
Reference: 78086
Model: Tank Louis
Era: 1970s
Movement: Manual
Case Size: 23x30mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: Original Strap and Buckle
Dial: White Roman "Paris"
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 641

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!!!