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A Luxurious Stroll In Paris.
Place Vendôme is a special place in Paris. It was built by Louis XIV as a grandiose square to showcase the Empire's absolute power. Over time the political establishments were replaced by haute couture retailers, jewellers and watch boutiques. Today Place Vendôme continues to draw onlookers with its glitz and sparkling glamour.
The Cartier Tank Vendôme is similar in that regard. It represents the best of what the brand has to offer. Originally released as part of the Louis Cartier Collection in 1973, this model signified Cartier's rich and prestigious history at a time when they were threatened by the quartz crisis. So while the market was being flooded by cheap watches, Cartier instead responded with this - a luxurious and beautiful timepiece.
This Cartier Vendôme is housed in a 33mm 18K yellow gold case. The case has a stepped design that frames the watch with depth. The original white dial is painted with classic roman indices and a minute railroad track that runs on the outer ring. In true Vendôme fashion, the dial is signed "Paris" and the sapphire cabochon sits on a beaded crown for that royal touch.
Unlike other Vendôme models that have lugs attached to the outside of the case, the leather strap here is fitted directly in the case for a more seamless look. The Cartier leather strap is affixed with a solid 18K gold Cartier deployment buckle that simply disappears when fully closed. The deployment buckle was patented over 100 years ago by Edmond Jaeger in collaboration with Cartier. A truly elegant and timeless design.
The hidden gem behind this timepiece is that it is powered by calibre 170, an automatic movement. This is indicated with the engraving "Automatique" on the bubble case back. Automatic versions of this model are rarer and carry a significant premium over their manual siblings.
While you likely won't find something like this at your next visit to Place Vendôme, no one said you can't buy souvenirs before you go.
This watch is in overall good honest condition.
The 18K yellow gold case shows light wear with some scratches and a few minor markings. The case back has clear and deep hallmarks.
The original dial is in good condition with light scratches around the 5 o'clock hour mark. Overall the dial retains its white colour with no spider webbing. The hands and crown are in excellent condition. The crystal is brand new, recently replaced by the service centre at Cartier.
The automatic movement has been serviced and is keeping accurate time.
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