SHOWER THOUGHTS: CARTIER PRIVE TANK NORMALE

Cartier is the master of design language. In this particular example of the 2023 Cartier Privé Tank Normale, they are able to again translate the definition of elegance into simple geometric case and bracelet design, to meet the always high expectation that comes with their brand.

good looks?

Elegantly brushed case. First thing that really struck my mind is the brushed case. Most people will relate an elegant or dress watch with a shiny polished case, but it doesn't always have to be that way. It takes Cartier's simple and elegant design execution on this model to overcome the general perception that brushed case are only appropriate for sport watch models.

Seven-piece link bracelet. The Tank model has been around since 1917 and Tank Normale since 1919. Having been around that long and released various iterations along the way, there seems to be very little left to explore and improve on the design of this iconic and well established model. One they did this year is the bracelet, which is elegantly put together through the seven-piece link. Other than the Pantheré's five-piece link bracelet, there isn't any Cartier models out there that has this style of bracelet.

who needs it?

Someone who doesn't like to wear what others wear. Understandably, a very well-designed model like this would be kept exclusive, and Cartier did exactly that. As part of the Cartier Privè collection, this model will only be produced in 100 pieces. If you don't like seeing others wearing the same watch as you, this watch model is probably the one for you.

Someone who's looking for an alternative full gold watch that's not Rolex Day-Date. If there is a brand that can compete with Rolex in terms of design and luxury status, it should be Cartier. With the release of Cartier Privé Tank Normale, I think the same comparison can be made with Rolex Day-Date. I can't be the only one who've heard enthusiast complain about too few options in the same 'weight' as the Rolex Day-Date. It's classy, versatile, and full of brushed 18k gold. This new release from Cartier should tick the same boxes and offer an alternative option to the Day-Date.

who's going to hate it?

Regular people who wont have access to it. With this new model being produced in limited quantity, it will be very hard to get at retail. I think we may have to wait a bit before the general public even have the opportunity to buy these, probably through auction houses. When these do appear at auctions, the price will likely be beyond affordability of most watch enthusiasts. But hey, at least we can see it during auction display, right? Certainly a Normale not for the normal people.

how about?

Mesh bracelet. The bracelet in this new model is already perfect and I don't think there is any bracelet that can top this. But an alternative option for a bracelet would also be nice to have. I'm speaking not to this particular model, but the Tank in general. I've seen collectors pair their Tank with mesh bracelet, and it looks amazing.

Gold coloured dial. Is there such thing as too much gold? Probably. Some say gold is a very strong colour and that it can only be used in small amounts. That certainly does not apply to Rolex Day-Date and going full gold to the dial can make this Tank Normale a truly comparable alternative to the Day-Date. That is if they wish to compete on the same segment with the Day-Date.