Cartier Tank Normale ref. 78092 with grain de riz

The Cartier Tank Normale Ref. 78092 represents the original blueprint of one of the most enduring watch designs in horological history. Introduced in the early 20th century and inspired by the tanks of World War I, the Tank Normale was the very first iteration of the Tank family. The Ref. 78092, crafted in 18k yellow gold, remains remarkably faithful to the spirit of the original design. With its compact rectangular case (approximately 23mm x 30mm), sharp angles, and brushed and polished surfaces. Inside ticks a hand-wound mechanical 78-1 movement. This very model is an absolute rarity not only by the crisp condition but mainly because of the ultra rare „grain de riz“ bracelet… over the past years only a handful of Cartier Tank Normale models on original „grain de riz“ bracelets have surfaced the market as it had to be specially ordered and altered by Cartier to fit to the case of the Tank Normale, unlike on Tank Louis models. The rarity continues I the condition of such bracelet as well as the case, being unpolished and only lightly worn, with soft scratches to the front of the case and medium scratches to the sides of the case. The sides as well as area around the crystal has evolved some lovely blue-red patina on the gold and the „Paris“ signed dial is in perfect condition with no cracks or hairlines!