1940's Cartier Tank Cornice Bec D'Aigle 18K

A Rare Bird

The title is a very broad one but it’s actually very specific to this watch. We have here the Cartier Tank Cornice Bec D’Aigle, which has the so-called Eagle Beak case referring to the down-pointed lugs on the case. An incredibly rare watch, let’s get into it.

The Cartier Tank, inspired from the design of a tank seen from above was born in 1917 and very quickly became the most iconic model from the Maison. It comes in a universe of configurations and to date is the flagship model from the collection.

The Tank Cornice is a rare watch that was produced primarily from the 1930s to 1950s, known for its elongated rectangular case and Art Deco style. Compared to some other Tank cases of the time, it feels larger, thicker and heavier constructed. The beautifully curved lugs bear the very distinct pointy shape giving it the name. The case was made by famous case maker Edmond Jaeger who at the time was making numerous works for Cartier. This watch was produced in France in the 1940s which was a blooming period for Cartier. The case is in a very good vintage condition showing only moderate wear from age. Serial number engraving on the case back is fully present, the hallmark fully present.

The movement is made by the European Watch & Clock Company which has a winding crown on the case back, much like the Duoplan 101 movement that was used a lot at the time. The winding and setting are smooth and fully functional and the timing is great, considering we are speaking about an 80 years-old watch.

The dial is signed Cartier only and is retained in fantastic and clean condition. The warm white background hardly shows any wear to the naked eye. The original print is prominent and unmolested, the rail track is fully present and well defined. The blued sword hands are original and in excellent condition

With the current run on Vintage Cartier, this is a great opportunity to acquire a watch that does not appear much anymore, especially in a fully original and great condition.