Case #176 — Cartier Tank Solo XL (Bracelet)

Status: Active Investigation
Condition: Very Good Pre-Owned
Scope: Watch Only

🔎 Case Notes

The Cartier Tank Solo XL is one of the most faithful modern expressions of one of watchmaking’s most important designs. Rooted in the original Tank of 1917, the Solo XL preserves the iconic rectangular case, crisp Roman numerals, and blued sword hands that have defined Cartier elegance for more than a century — while scaling the proportions for a contemporary wrist.

The XL size brings added presence without disrupting the Tank’s legendary balance. Paired with the stainless steel bracelet, this configuration leans more architectural and modern than leather-strap variants, offering a clean, integrated look that wears effortlessly from formal to everyday settings.

This example is presented in very good pre-owned condition, showing light, natural signs of careful wear consistent with regular use. The case lines remain strong, the dial is clean and well preserved, and the bracelet presents nicely with only gentle surface marks visible under close inspection. Offered as watch only, it represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a cornerstone Cartier design without full-kit premiums.

🕰️ The Evidence

Model: Cartier Tank Solo XL

REF: W5200028
Case: Stainless Steel, Rectangular
Bezel: Polished Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Dial: Silvered Dial with Roman Numerals
Hands: Blued Steel Sword Hands
Movement: Cartier Automatic
Bracelet: Stainless Steel Bracelet with Folding Clasp
Water Resistance: 30 m
Accessories: Watch Only
Condition Notes: Very good overall; light surface wear consistent with careful use; dial and crystal clean; bracelet tight and well kept.

🎨 The Tank Legacy

The Tank is not just a watch — it is a design icon. Worn by artists, architects, and cultural tastemakers for over a century, its geometry has transcended trends and categories.

The Tank Solo line was introduced to offer a more accessible, everyday interpretation of the classic Tank, while the XL variant provides enhanced versatility for modern preferences. On bracelet, the Solo XL becomes especially adaptable — equally appropriate in professional environments or as a refined daily wearer.

🌟 Collector Provenance

Tank models remain cornerstones of serious collections, valued for their timeless design and cultural significance. Bracelet-equipped Solo XL examples are particularly appealing for collectors seeking a one-watch solution that blends elegance with durability.

Watch-only examples in very good condition offer strong value for those focused on design and wearability over packaging.

🌟 Celebrity Provenance

The Cartier Tank has been worn by countless cultural figures — from artists and writers to actors and style icons — cementing its reputation as one of the most influential wristwatch designs ever created. The Tank Solo XL continues that tradition with a modern sensibility.

🧾 From the Case File

“Presented as watch only in very good pre-owned condition. Light, honest wear present, but the dial remains clean and the case lines strong. Bracelet shows gentle surface marks consistent with careful use. A classic design preserved with integrity.”

🗝️ BST Verdict

Case #176 represents enduring design at its most versatile. With its XL proportions, stainless steel bracelet, and very good condition, this Tank Solo offers a refined yet practical expression of Cartier’s most iconic form — a watch that never goes out of style.

👉 Every case deserves a closer look.