Icons Wearing The Iconic Cartier Tank

18 Nov, 2023

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Few things are as fickle as trends, especially in pop culture. But in a world where what’s “in” today is often forgotten tomorrow, one icon defies fashion’s transient nature—the Cartier Tank watch. With its distinctive rectangular form and impeccable craftsmanship, this legendary timepiece has transcended the ephemeral cycles of style, standing as a timeless symbol of sophistication. Beyond being a mere accessory, this watch has become an enduring emblem of beauty and grace.

Through the decades, the Cartier Tank has graced the wrists of the world’s most influential and captivating personalities, leaving an indelible mark on both horological history and the realm of high fashion. And with each patron, it has taken on a unique character, reflecting the individuality and elegance of those who have made it a part of their story. So, today, we embark on an enchanting journey, exploring all the extraordinary personalities who have repeatedly shown how much they adore the extraordinary Cartier Tank.

Princess Diana

The Late Princess Diana was known for her grace, compassion, and timeless style. But she was also very much known for her love for Cartier Tank watches. From the Tank Louis to the Tank Française, the stated elegance of the simple timepieces was very much in line with her own persona and style preferences.

The integrated bracelet and refined dial of the Tank models harmonised seamlessly with Diana’s regal demeanour, making it a natural extension of her fashion sensibility. So much so that it became a much-needed accessory in how women styled themselves, almost becoming a part of the uniform of appearing refined and elegant, like the Princess. Just as she was a symbol of love and compassion, it would not be an over-exaggeration to say that the Cartier Tank timepieces became synonymous with her and her enduring beauty.

Truman Capote

Truman Capote, the literary genius behind Breakfast at Tiffany’s and In Cold Blood, was often seen sporting the Cartier Tank. Capote’s unique and intellectual persona was mirrored in his choice of this watch. Much like his avant-garde writing, this watch symbolised his affinity for the unique and refined, which the Cartier Tank watches encapsulated beautifully. And by his admission, we know that he had a penchant for collecting this specific Tank, proven when he famously admonished a journalist for wearing an “ugly watch” and gave him his own Cartier Tank to wear.

Gary Cooper

The suave and debonair Gary Cooper, renowned for his timely charisma on and off the silver screen, was often seen sporting the Cartier Tank Basculante. Cooper’s choice of this exquisite timepiece mirrored his understated yet unmistakable elegance, combining his innate sense of style and sophistication with his enduring legacy.

Often spotted wearing it at prestigious events and film premieres, the Tank Basculante, introduced in 1932, features a rectangular case with a sleek silver dial and delicate blue steel hands. Cooper’s preference for this particular Cartier Tank model showcased his preference for classic design, aligning seamlessly with his enduring status as a Hollywood icon.

Ralph Lauren

Anyone interested in the fashion world knows who Ralph Lifshitz, more famously known as Ralph Lauren, is. Known for his own stated and incredibly debonair fashion choices, it is no surprise that Cartier Tank was the timepiece of choice of this fashion mogul.

More specifically, a custom Andy Warhol-cuff Cartier Tank Cintrée. While the Cintrée itself is an enigmatic watch, with its slim, curved case, the golden sunburst dial, and the signature blued-steel sword-shaped hands, this custom edition that soon became Lauren’s favourite also features gold cuffs that snugly envelop the wrist for comfortable and secure fit. Considering the incredible combination of the full golden design, it is no wonder it is still considered one of his most prized timepieces.

Muhammad Ali

Be it the fashion industry or the boxing world, the charms of the Cartier Tank have entranced many, including Muhammad Ali, a legendary figure both in and out of the boxing ring. A global icon known for his unshakable confidence and charismatic persona, he had a penchant for the Tank watches. More specifically, the Cartier Tank JC, named after the nephew of founder Louis Cartier.

The watch’s bold square case and minimalist dial echoed his straightforward approach to life, while its sturdy build symbolised his strength and resilience. Much like his legendary boxing career, the Tank JC was robust and refined, making it a fitting choice for the champ who floated like a butterfly and stung like a bee.

Jackie Kennedy

While Princess Diana pioneered the fashion scene for women in the UK, Jackie Kennedy occupied a similar position for women in the USA. The epitome of First Lady fashion and an enduring cultural icon, Jackie Kennedy cherished her Cartier Tank, gifted to her by her brother-in-law, Prince Stanislaw Radziwill, in 1963. This choice reflected her refined taste and ability to set global fashion trends. The watch’s simple and straight case and timeless design, complete with the signature cabochon crown, complemented her impeccable style, effortlessly transitioning from formal state events to casual outings.

Andy Warhol

If there ever was a person unapologetically all about style and aesthetics, it was Andy Warhol. Avant-garde artist Andy Warhol was known for his unconventional approach to art, and his choice of the Cartier Tank Cintrée reflected his unique artistic vision. It is clear to see that the watch’s beauty took Warhol, nothing else, proven by his very famous words, “I don’t wear a Tank to tell the time. In fact, I never wind it. I wear a Tank because it’s the watch to wear.”

Warhol saw more than a timepiece in the Cartier Tank Cintrée; he saw a means of self-expression. Like his groundbreaking artwork, the watch became an emblem of his unorthodox perspective and influence on art and culture.

Ingrid Bergman

Ingrid Bergman’s preference for her favourite Cartier Tank was driven by her appreciation for its enduring simplicity and elegance. The watch’s slender profile and unadorned dial epitomised her timeless beauty and contributions to cinema. Much like her memorable roles, the Cartier Tank was a symbol of understated grace and sophistication.

Michelle Obama

Former First Lady Michelle Obama celebrated for her grace, intelligence, and empowerment, often adorned her wrist with the Tank Française. As a trailblazer in women empowerment and her unapologetic yet memorably elegant poise, the Tank perfectly complements her headstrong nature. The watch’s sleek and confident design, harmonised with her powerful yet approachable persona, complements her influence as a global role model and fashion icon.