A 1980s Must de Cartier Tank in the coveted "turtle shell" wood effect dial, one of the rarest colourways produced across the Must de Cartier line. This particular example houses a Swiss mechanical hand-wound movement with 17 jewels, signed Cartier and keeping excellent time.
The 20mm vermeil case is crafted from solid 925 sterling silver with a 20-micron layer of 18ct gold, giving it the warm tone and weight that set the Must de Cartier apart from standard gold-plated watches. The iconic blue sapphire cabochon crown sits at three o'clock, and the caseback is clearly engraved with the Cartier Paris hallmarks and serial number.
The deep brown wood effect dial catches the light in shifting tones, from warm chocolate to dark amber, with no hour markers, allowing the grain of the lacquer to take centre stage. Gold-tone feuille hands complete the minimalist composition.
Fitted with a new genuine leather strap in dark brown. The original Cartier lizard strap, showing wear consistent with its age, will be included in the parcel. Delivered in the red Cartier velvet travel pouch.
Specifications
Movement: Swiss mechanical, hand-wound, 17 jewels, signed Cartier
Case: 20mm width (excluding crown), 925 sterling silver, 18ct gold plated (20 microns)
Dial: Wood effect lacquer, no hour markers
Crown: Blue sapphire cabochon
Caseback: Signed Cartier Paris, Argent 925, Plaqué Or G20M, serial number engraved
Strap: New aftermarket genuine leather, 19.4cm length
Included: Cartier red velvet travel pouch, original Cartier lizard strap
Condition
Very good vintage condition with minor signs of wear consistent with age. The vermeil finish shows light surface marks. The movement has been checked and is running accurately. Service history unknown.
Frequently asked questions
Are your watches authentic?
Yes — all watches sold in our shop are 100% authentic vintage pieces. We carefully source our timepieces from trusted auction houses and long-term, reputable suppliers. We never sell fakes or replicas.
Does my watch come with its original box and papers?
Every item included in your order is individually photographed and described in the listing. When original packaging or documentation is available, it will always be clearly shown and described. This means that if an original box, papers or any other accessory is not pictured or mentioned in the description, it is not part of the order. In this case, the watch will arrive in a Finchley Watches cardboard box, carefully wrapped and packaged for safe delivery.
What is your return policy?
We accept returns and exchanges within 14 days of delivery, provided the watch is returned in its original condition. The buyer is responsible for return shipping costs, initial shipping costs are non-refundable, and a flat restocking fee of 5% of the purchase price will apply. If the piece is faulty or significantly not as described, we will of course cover all return fees.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes — we offer free worldwide shipping from the UK. We usually dispatch within 2 business days. UK delivery takes 1–4 business days, international delivery 3–10 business days depending on your location. If you're ordering from the United States, all taxes and duties are included.
Have another question? See all FAQs or get in touch.
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From the Watch Journal
The Vintage Cartier Watch Guide: Iconic Models from the 1980s–2000s
Your complete guide to vintage Cartier watches: explore iconic models from the 1980s–2000s and discover why these elegant timepieces remain timeless.
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