Cartier
Rarity in regards to collecting means that in case you are able to spend the money, you are not able to buy the watch because it is just not available. Now imagine you are after a watch that has been produced maybe 5-20 times and the condition is weak, what would you do? Pass or take it? Luckily, here we have watch that is so rare and in such a good condition, that at least you do not have to ask yourself the condition question. I would say that there are 2-3 watches existing in this condition. The Tank Automatique was produced in a small batch of a few hundred in the 70s resulting from some requests from customers asking for piece unique Tanks with automatic movement. Cartier then decided to produce these larger Tanks (17011 (the smaller jumbo) and 17002) in a little amount in white and yellow gold. Some people say that less then 10% of a 70s reference has been produced in white gold, so imagine there are 150+ reference 17002 out there in yellow gold we might have 5-20 white gold ones. Independent of the gold, some are in weak condition, some do not exist anymore.
REFERENCE
17002
Condition
The case really is in pretty pretty good condition, I would might say it is unpolished. The gaps of the case back and the top are not polished out, the curves of the lugs are perfectly equal. The polished are of the case back is flat like a mirror and the bubble is brushed nicely while showing deep deep engravings. The screw heads of the case screws are good, same is for the bars. The crown nearly has no wear and is not a service part, showing the long cabochon. The crystal is new. The deployant is also perfect and probably unpolished, just check out the hall marks of this lovely piece. Inside, we have a very well preserved dial. We all know, that Tanks are not known for their water resistance, but here we have a nearly perfect dial. The only thing to mention is a little spot in the bottom left corner. Except this and based on its age I would say it is perfect. The hands are the correct original parts, having a little patina on the tip of the minute hand. Last but not least: We have a Paris signed dial, but I guess you have seen this already. This is a really rare chance and if you are looking for a 17002 white gold this is it. The watch has just been serviced. You will receive the watch only. Please ask for a price.
Diameter
28mm
Dial
Paris signed dial with roman numerals
Movement
Automatic
Case
White gold
Bracelet
Cartier with Cartier white gold buckle