Cartier Tank Obus - 18K Yellow Gold
The Quadrant Enamel Classic
The Cartier Tank Obus is a distinct departure from the elongated rectangles typically associated with the brand. This 1980s execution, often referred to as the "Quadrant," utilizes a perfectly square 20x20mm 18k yellow gold case. What sets this specific reference apart is the bezel; rather than leaving the gold plain, Cartier inlaid it with black enamel Roman numerals. This design choice pushes the hour markers to the bezel, allowing the white dial to remain open and minimalist. It is a sophisticated, geometric take on the Tank lineage that feels more like a piece of stationary architecture than a standard timepiece
A Rare Geometric Execution
In the world of vintage Cartier, the Obus occupies a niche space for collectors who appreciate "shaped" watches. The square proportions give it a stout presence on the wrist despite its refined dimensions. The contrast between the high-polish 18k yellow gold and the crisp black enamel creates a graphic intensity that is signature to Cartier’s early 20th-century design language, revived here for the 1980s. It is a configuration that prioritizes the case's silhouette, making the bezel the primary dial while the internal white face serves as a clean, secondary backdrop.
Sharp Gold And Preserved Enamel
The 18k yellow gold case is in good condition, maintaining its sharp square corners and the distinct "bullet" lugs that give the Obus its name. Crucially, the black enamel Roman numerals on the bezel are well-preserved, retaining their deep pigment and clean edges. The white dial is excellent, showing no signs of spotting or degradation. The watch is currently fitted to a leather strap with an aftermarket buckle. Mechanically, the watch is being sorted for a fresh battery as part of our intake process runs great.
A Sophisticated Square Alternative
This is a watch for the Cartier enthusiast who already owns a Tank Louis or a Santos and wants something more obscure. The Tank Obus offers a level of vintage charm and geometric character that is hard to find in modern catalogs. It functions as a formal dress watch with a heavy lean toward jewelry, offering a look that is both historically grounded and visually unique. It is a rare, intentional design that remains one of the most interesting "hidden" references in the Cartier archive.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
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Shipping
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What Our Clients Say About Us
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)
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.
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….
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!!!