A monumental expression of Cartier’s Paris-era elegance — the Tank Louis XL “Jumbo” Ref. 17002 in full 18K yellow gold, crowned with a true Paris Dial, and powered by Cartier’s automatic movement. A rare large-format Tank that commands the wrist with quiet aristocratic presence.

“The Architecture of Elegance.”

Few watches embody the original Louis Cartier design language as faithfully as the Tank Louis XL. Its elongated profile, hand-painted Roman numerals, and flawless golden architecture create a presence that is both refined and unmistakably powerful. In this “Jumbo” 17002 configuration, the Tank becomes a statement piece — still understated, but undeniably grand.

Description

The Cartier Tank Louis XL “Jumbo” Ref. 17002 represents one of the most desirable iterations in the Tank lineage — a large-format expression of Louis Cartier’s 1917 blueprint, crafted here in solid 18K yellow gold and distinguished by a coveted Paris signature dial.

The elongated gold case amplifies the Tank’s iconic geometry: parallel brancards, squared angles softened with Cartier’s distinctive curvature, and a gently domed sapphire crown cabochon. At this XL scale, the architectural purity becomes more pronounced, offering a wrist presence rarely achieved in vintage Cartier.

The dial is a masterclass in Paris-era typography: elongated Roman numerals, chemin-de-fer minute track, blued-steel sword hands, and the subtle “Paris” signature that anchors the composition. Cartier collectors prize this detail highly — it marks an era of exceptional dial craftsmanship and boutique specificity.

Inside beats Cartier’s automatic caliber (based on a Swiss ébauche refined for Tank architecture), ensuring elegant winding autonomy while maintaining the ultra-slim profile expected of a dress watch of this pedigree.

While showing vintage wear consistent with age and use, the watch retains its integrity, charm, and collectible value. Examples of the Ref. 17002 with Paris dials and XL proportions rarely appear in the Japanese domestic market, making this an exceptional acquisition opportunity for Cartier connoisseurs.

⭐ Highlights & Features

• Cartier Tank Louis XL “Jumbo” Ref. 17002
• Solid 18K yellow gold case
• Rare “Paris” signature dial
• Automatic movement
• Blued-steel sword hands
• Classic Roman numeral layout
• Large-format Tank with strong wrist presence
• Highly collectible vintage Cartier reference
• Japan-market example
• Ideal for collectors of Paris-era Cartier design

⭐ Item Details

Brand: Cartier
Model: Tank Louis XL “Jumbo”
Reference: 17002
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold (K18YG)
Dial: Paris Dial, Roman numerals
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: XL / Jumbo format
Crown: Blue sapphire cabochon
Strap: Leather strap (aftermarket as per listing images)
Country of Manufacture: Switzerland
Era: Vintage
Inclusions: Watch only
Condition: Vintage wear; scratches and discoloration noted (傷や汚れあり)

⭐ Condition Report

Dial:
Paris dial remains beautifully preserved with clean printing and strong numeral definition. Minor aging consistent with vintage examples. Hands maintain strong bluing.

Case:
18K yellow-gold case with visible wear, hairlines, and surface marks consistent with Yahoo listing condition notation. No structural distortion. Brancards retain shape and definition.

Crystal:
Clear with minor micro-scratches typical for age.

Crown:
Cabochon crown intact, securely seated, smooth operation.

Movement:
Automatic movement functions at listing time; service history not provided. Winds, sets, and operates normally.

Strap:
Leather strap (non-original). Buckle appears non-Cartier.

Overall Condition Grade: A Rank (Vintage Wear Present)
Cosmetic wear noted, but structural and mechanical integrity preserved.

⭐ Why Collectors Want This Piece

The 17002 occupies a rare place in Cartier’s Tank chronology:
• It is an XL / Jumbo interpretation of the Louis Cartier design — highly sought after.
• It bears the Paris dial, placing it in an era of boutique-specific artistry.
• It is a full 18K gold execution, offering weight, presence, and refinement.
• The automatic movement expands its practicality while retaining classic elegance.

Collectors view this reference as a bridge between the early Tank Louis heritage and the larger modern reinterpretations — scarce, architectural, and unmistakably Cartier.

Brand Heritage

Founded in 1847, Cartier has shaped modern jewelry and horology with designs that transcend time. The Tank, introduced in 1917 and inspired by the geometry of military armor, remains one of Cartier’s most influential creations. Its rectangular form, integrated brancards, and refined dial typography defined an entirely new category of dress watches. The Tank Louis, in particular, represents Louis Cartier’s personal vision — a balance of architectural clarity and artistic grace.

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