With little history documented and seldom seen to market, the Cartier “Stepped” Tank is a beautiful timepiece only known amongst the most dedicated vintage collectors. Dating from the early 1970s, the present lot precedes the famous “must de Cartier” family and has an oversized case. The stepped profile and oversized cabochon crown both contribute to the watch having an presence on the wrist.

The “Stepped” Tank came in three variants depending on whether it was manufactured in the New York, London, or Paris boutique. The present lot comes from the New York workshop, and is the most rare and desirable. It can be distinguished by the oversized crown, four case back screws, and the serial number beginning with “12.”