2 Cartier A fine and attractive reversible rectangular-shaped wristwatch in steel with white guilloché Roman numbers dial.

Estimate: CHF 3,000 –⁠ 6,000

The name Cartier is synonymous with elegance, artistry, and a century-long legacy of luxury. A maison that has indelibly shaped the world of jewelry and watchmaking, its creations are admired as much for their historical importance as for their distinctive, avant-garde designs. While horological purists may debate its standing as a true manufacture, there is no denying that Cartier has produced some of the most instantly recognizable watches in history; the Tank, the Crash, and the Santos to name a few, revered not just for their mechanics, but for their sheer aesthetic brilliance. Among these design triumphs sits the Tank Basculante, first introduced in 1933 and inspired by the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, another Art Deco icon built for functionality and protection. While the Reverso pivoted horizontally, the Basculante executed an even more theatrical maneuver: rotating vertically to stand upright—transforming, with a flick of the finger, into an elegant table clock. With an eye toward its storied past, Cartier revived this remarkable model in the early 1990s as reference 2390, subtly refining its proportions while preserving its spirit of ingenuity. Housed in a staggeringly thin 5.8mm case, this modern reinterpretation is powered by the Cartier Caliber 060 MC, a Piguet-derived manual movement measuring an astonishing 2mm in thickness and a tribute to the maison’s ability to blend mechanical finesse with aesthetic purity. Now celebrated as one of the most sought-after cult classics in the Cartier archives, the Tank Basculante reference 2390 embodies everything that makes Cartier special, a watch steeped in heritage, innovation, and enduring style. For collectors who appreciate both mechanical intrigue and timeless design, this is an opportunity to acquire a piece of horological artistry that truly stands apart.