Cartier Tank Basculante 2390 Mécanique

Here we have a piece from our personal collection, the absolutely stunning Basculante.

The Cartier Tank line is one of the most iconic in the industry, enduring for over 100 years.

The design of the Tank was inspired by the Renault FT-17 tanks, hence its rectangular form. The line was expanded with the Basculante, released in 1932, one year after the far more well known rectangular watch with the flip feature, the Reverso from JLC. While the Reverso utilises a track system to pivot, the Basculante uses an intricate frame to swing vertically. While in the midst of this swing, the face and frame resemble a seesaw, or Bascule in French…hence, Basculante!

While far less known than the Reverso, this lack of recognition and continuity in production has meant that the Basculante is the far rarer watch, and they are becoming more and more popular by the day.

This particular 2390 version dates to 2002, and is in our opinion one of the most desirable versions. It features a beautifully proportioned steel 24mm x 38mm case and is powered by an ultra thin Frederique Piguet manual wind movement. Hands are blued, and the dial features a stunning, subtle guilloche.

This particular piece presents in TZ Good condition. The case shows some light marks, and a few small dings. The crystal shows a little damage around the edges. Dial shows some light patina which is typical of these 2390’s. Please see images for full condition details.

It comes mounted on a beautiful blue Alligator Cartier strap along with the rare and desirable Cartier deployant buckle.

Unknown service history. Winds smoothly. Crown stem is a touch wobbly, but doesn’t affect winding. Timegrapher readings are erratic. Manual timing shows it keeping within about a minute per day (no seconds hand), but would probably suggest a service.

Includes inner box and guarantee manual dated 17.11.2002.

Don’t miss your chance to get a 2390 with box and papers before they shoot off into the stratosphere!

Brand: Cartier

Model #: 2390

Year: Early 00’s.

Gender: Men’s

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case details: 24mm x 38mm

Movement: Manual

Dial: Off white

Hands: Blued

Paraphernalia: Inner box and guarantee manual dated 17.11.2002

TZ Grading: Good

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see here for details.