Cartier Tank Basculante Ref. 2390 Full Set

The Cartier Tank Basculante occupies a particularly fascinating position within Cartier’s history. It is recognisably a Tank, yet its architecture and functionality set it apart from virtually every other model in the collection.

The concept dates back to 1932, when Cartier introduced its distinctive cabriolet system: rather than simply turning a watch over, the case pivots vertically, allowing the dial to be concealed inside the case. The result is an ingenious combination of protection, functionality and design — a distinctly Cartier interpretation of the reversible watch.

The model returned to Cartier’s production in the 1990s, and the Ref. 2390 became one of the most interesting modern interpretations of the Basculante. Produced in stainless steel and equipped with a manual-winding movement, it is considerably more compelling from a collector’s perspective than the quartz versions produced alongside it. The 2390 measures approximately 25 × 38 mm, including the lugs, and houses Cartier’s hand-wound Calibre 060 MC, an ultra-thin movement derived from the F. Piguet 610.

What makes the Basculante particularly relevant today is the changing perception of Cartier among collectors. The market has progressively moved beyond the most obvious Tank references, with unusual, historically significant and mechanically interesting Cartier watches receiving considerably more attention. The Basculante sits precisely within this movement.

Its resurgence has been particularly noticeable in the collector market. The Ref. 2390 experienced a substantial rise in market values during the recent Cartier boom, demonstrating how quickly a once-overlooked reference can become desirable once collectors begin reassessing the catalogue.

There is also a simple reason for its appeal: the Basculante is an interactive watch. The reversible case is not merely an aesthetic detail; it is the defining mechanical feature of the watch and one that immediately communicates why this Tank is different.

This example dates to 2000 and is offered as a Full Set, making it particularly attractive for collectors looking for a complete example from this period. It is fitted with a honey-coloured pigskin strap and retains its original Cartier deployant clasp.

A distinctive Cartier with genuine horological character, an unusual construction and a reference that has moved decisively from being overlooked to becoming one of the more interesting modern Tanks for collectors.

A Tank for the collector who already knows the obvious Cartier references — and is looking for something different.