About This Watch:

Cartier originally released the “Must De” line in 1973, as a line of more affordable Cartier products, including accessories such as pens, lighters, and bags.  Beginning in 1977, Cartier added the Must De Tank timepiece to the line.  With a sterling silver case with gold plating, the Must De Tank follows the same shape and design as the Tank Louis Cartier, but at a significantly reduced price.

The History:  The Cartier brand was founded in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier in Paris.  In 1904, his grandson Louis developed the brand's first wristwatch at the request of Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont.  The first design consisted of a flat-faced watch with a square bezel and a simple-to-read dial.  The timepiece was named the Santos and became Cartier's first wristwatch for men.

The Watch:  The Must De Cartier Tank Ref 366001 features a 28mm by 20mm sterling silver case with gold plating.  Powered by a quartz movement, the Tank Argent 366001 features a black and grey dial with gilt Roman numerals and gold-plated hour and second hands, while the case features a cobalt-blue spinel crown that is a characteristic shared by all Cartier watches.

The Details:  This Must De Cartier Tank Ref 366001 is functioning properly.  The case shows wear, consistent with a timepiece of this age, and is visible in the photographs.  There is some wear to the gold plating on the lugs and the crystal shows some surface scratches.  Included is the original Cartier black alligator leather strap with a gold plated buckle.