Overview
In 1933, Cartier introduced a distinctive version of its Tank series that took inspiration from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso—the Basculante. Like the Reverso, the new Tank Basculante featured a reversible case that enabled the wearer to flip the watch’s face to protect its crystal. However, unlike the Reverso’s horizontal sliding mechanism, the Tank Basculante employed a vertical swiveling apparatus that was triggered when pulling the case out by the cabochon at 12 o’clock. This unique design also allowed the face to sit perpendicular to the case and double as a table clock.
Nearly 60 years after its initial debut, Cartier decided to reissue the Tank Basculante in the 1990s. The watch was modeled closely after the original and adorned with classic Cartier treatments including a silver guilloché dial, black roman numeral hour markers, and blued steel hands. There were several variations of the new Basculante, and most were powered by quartz movements. However, Cartier fitted its largest size, the reference 2390, with the mechanical caliber 050, which was a Piaget-based ultra-thin movement reserved for the brand’s premier offerings.
Given this distinction, it’s no surprise that the reference 2390 has become the most collectable of the Basculante reissues, and one of the most desirable Tanks to own. The large case and swiveling design set it apart from traditional offerings and provide one of the more delightful user experiences both on and off the wrist.
Specifications
Brand:
Cartier
Model:
Tank Basculante LM
Reference:
2390
Year:
2000s
Case Number:
62332PB
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
25.4 mm
Lug Width:
20 mm
Thickness:
5.8 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
38.5 mm
Dial:
Silver
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
Cartier 050
Bracelet/Strap:
Veblenist navy blue saffiano calfksin strap with tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The case is overall in great condition with light signs of wear throughout, the most notable of which are two tiny dings to the polished tracks at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions, and a light scratch to the brushed case at 7 o'clock. The lug tracks are nice and thick and show a few hairlines and micro scuffs. The reverse side of the face and the caseback have a few light scratches, but nothing major. The model and serial number engravings are sharp and detailed.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The silver guilloché dial and blued sword hands are in pristine condition. The sapphire crystal was just replaced at servcie and is perfect.
Bracelet/Strap: The Veblenist navy blue saffiano calfskin strap is brand new and in unworn condition.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown-winding and time-setting are working as expected.
Service History: The watch recently underwent a full service by Cartier that was completed on 07/31/2023.
