At Samurai Vintage Co., we curate timeless treasures that tell a story. Introducing the 1970s Cartier Tank Must Vintage Quartz Movement—a rare masterpiece that blends iconic design with vintage allure. This gold-plated, quartz-powered watch isn’t just a timepiece; it’s a legacy waiting to elevate your collection. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Cartier’s brilliance.

Since its debut in 1917, the Cartier Tank has redefined elegance with its revolutionary rectangular design, inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank. Originally crafted in solid gold, it became a symbol of sophistication, gracing the wrists of icons. The Tank Must builds on this heritage, bringing Cartier’s artistry to a new era. THE TANK MUST REVOLUTION In the 1970s, Cartier unveiled the Tank Must, a bold evolution that made luxury accessible. Swapping solid gold for a gold-plated vermeil case and embracing quartz technology, Cartier crafted a watch that retained the Tank’s elegance at a fraction of the cost. This innovation opened the doors to a wider audience, cementing the Tank Must as a horological icon.

The 1970s Tank Must line embraced quartz technology during the quartz revolution, offering electronic precision and reliability. These pieces, like this one, celebrate modern horology—requiring only occasional battery changes via the convenient 4-screw caseback. Paired with the stunning Trinity dial featuring three-tone gold stripes in yellow, rose, and white gold tones inspired by Cartier's iconic Trinity rings, this watch is a true collector’s gem, blending exclusivity with everyday usability compared to manual-winding counterparts. Unlike modern Tanks, this 1970s gem carries the patina of history, making every wear a connection to a glamorous era.
Maker: Cartier
Model: Tank Must Vintage Quartz Movement
Era: 1980
Case Diameter: Approx. 23mm x 30mm
Case Material: Gold-plated (vermeil)
Dial: Rare Trinity dial with three-tone gold stripes (yellow, rose, and white gold tones) and no cracking found on the dial; retained in nice condition
Case Condition: A near-mint vermeil case with minor sign of wear and all gold plating still in good shape.
Crystal Condition: Original Mineral glass
Movement: Cartier Quartz Movement
Straps: The watch comes with a replacement red strap with a replacement buckle.
As a leading vintage watch seller, Samurai Vintage Co. is dedicated to authenticity and quality. Each timepiece is carefully vetted to ensure you receive a genuine piece of history. Explore our Vintage Cartier Collection for more iconic finds.
The 1970s Cartier Tank Must Vintage is a fleeting opportunity. With vintage Cartier watches vanishing from the market, this is your moment to own a piece of horological artistry. Picture it on your wrist—elegant, exclusive, and undeniably Cartier. Contact Us to Buy Now or risk missing out on this collector’s dream.