Cartier Tank Must Large SolarBeat WSTA0138

The Cartier Tank Must Large SolarBeat Ref. WSTA0138 is a modern interpretation of one of the most iconic designs in watchmaking history, combining the timeless elegance of Louis Cartier's original 1917 Tank with innovative solar-powered technology. Inspired by the rectangular lines of military tanks viewed from above during World War I, the Tank has remained a symbol of understated sophistication for more than a century. This contemporary version features a polished stainless steel case measuring 33.7mm x 25.5mm and just 6.6mm thick, preserving the slim, elegant proportions that have defined the collection for generations. Its classic silvered dial features bold black Roman numerals, a railway-style minute track, and Cartier's signature blued-steel sword-shaped hands. The distinctive beaded crown is set with a blue synthetic spinel cabochon, adding one of the brand's most recognizable design details. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, 30 meters of water resistance, and a black calfskin leather strap with a stainless steel pin buckle complete the refined appearance.

Inside is Cartier's innovative SolarBeat photovoltaic quartz movement, a modern advancement that brings exceptional convenience to the traditional Tank design. Rather than relying solely on a conventional disposable battery, the SolarBeat movement captures light through discreet photovoltaic elements beneath the dial, converting it into energy to power the watch. This technology allows the movement to recharge through exposure to natural or artificial light while maintaining the precision and reliability associated with quartz timekeeping. Cartier developed the SolarBeat system to preserve the Tank's unmistakable dial architecture without introducing visible solar panels or compromising its elegant proportions. The Tank Must collection itself traces its heritage to the Must de Cartier watches introduced in the 1970s, which helped bring the Maison's iconic designs to a wider audience. With its historically inspired rectangular case, timeless Roman numeral dial, classic blue hands, and innovative solar-powered movement, the WSTA0138 offers a compelling combination of traditional Cartier elegance and contemporary watchmaking technology.

Reference: WSTA0138

Dated: Undated

MSRP: $3900

Dial: Ivory

Bracelet: Cartier Black Leather

Case Size: 33.7 × 25.5 mm (~6.6 mm thickness)

Case Metal: Stainless Steel

Movement: Cartier Quartz

Functions: Hours, Minutes

Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 7.5”

Case has minimal wear. Strap has minimal creasing with hardly any wear. Dial. hands and crystal are in mint condition. 

Cartier, founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, began as a jewelry workshop that quickly gained recognition among French aristocracy. Under the leadership of Alfred Cartier, the company expanded into watchmaking, with a pivotal moment occurring in 1904 when Louis Cartier created the Santos Dumont, the world's first modern men's wristwatch, for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.

Throughout the 20th century, Cartier continued to innovate in watch design, introducing iconic timepieces like the Tank in 1918, inspired by the Renault FT-17 tank. The company's watches became known for blending functionality with artistic elements, incorporating Art Deco influences and precious materials. Today, as part of the Richemont Group, Cartier remains a leader in luxury watchmaking, continuing to produce exquisite timepieces that combine tradition with contemporary design, from the classic Tank to the modern Pasha.