Answer
Real Cartier Tank watches share a set of physical features. The case is rectangular or square. Two vertical bars, called brancards, run on each side. The crown has a blue cabochon. The dial uses Roman numerals, sword-shaped hands, and a chemin de fer minute track. The caseback has deep engravings with a reference number, serial number, and metal hallmarks. Cartier introduced the Tank in 1917. The first model was given to General John Pershing.
Case and Brancards
The case of a real Cartier Tank is not a simple rectangle. The brancards are integrated into the case. They form the vertical sides. On the Tank Louis Cartier, the case measures 33.7 mm by 25.5 mm for the large model. The small model measures 29.5 mm by 22 mm. The case has polished surfaces and brushed flanks. Edges are crisp. Replicas often have soft edges or uneven brushing.
Fake Cartier Tank Comparison: How to Tell a Real Tank From a Counterfeit
The caseback is flat. It sits flush with the case. Engravings are deep and clear. A real Tank has a reference number, a serial number, and a metal hallmark. For 18k gold, the hallmark is 750. For platinum, it is 950. "Swiss Made" appears at the bottom.
Crown and Cabochon
The crown is beaded. It has a blue cabochon. The cabochon is a sapphire on gold models. It is a spinel on steel models. The cabochon is smooth and set flush. It does not protrude. Replicas often use glass or plastic. These look cloudy or have bubbles.
Dial Features
The dial has Roman numerals. The numerals are printed, not applied. The printing is thin and sharp. The hands are sword-shaped. They are blued steel on many models. The minute track is a chemin de fer. This looks like a train track. It has small squares or dots.
Some models have a secret signature. The word "Cartier" is hidden in a Roman numeral. On the Tank Louis Cartier, it is in the X at 10 o'clock. On the Tank Française, it is in the VII at 7 o'clock. The signature is part of the numeral. It is not printed on top.
Movement and Crystal
Real Cartier Tank watches use Cartier movements. The Tank Louis Cartier uses the 1917 MC manual wind movement. The Tank Must uses a quartz movement. The Tank Française uses quartz or automatic. The crystal is sapphire. It is scratch-resistant. Replicas often use mineral glass. Mineral glass scratches.
Strap and Clasp
The strap is alligator leather. It has a deployant clasp. The clasp has "Cartier" engraved. The engraving is crisp. The leather has a matte finish. Stitching is even.
Weight and Feel
A real Cartier Tank in 18k gold feels heavy. A steel model feels solid. The weight matches the metal. Replicas often use lighter metals. They feel hollow.