Cartier Stepped Tank Ref. 5512116

The Stepped Tank Jumbo is one of the rarest models among vintage Cartier watches. Around 1970—approximately between 1973 and 1976—only a small number were produced in New York, Paris, and London. There are slight design differences by region. This is either the Paris or London model, featuring a push-back case without screws on the case back. Because Paris and London are both in Europe, the models are remarkably similar and difficult to distinguish. This model was sold in either Paris or London. Only 5,000 pieces of each were produced at the time, making them extremely rare. Models with a larger Case Size were produced and distributed in limited numbers, and it is particularly uncommon for them to reach Japan. The dial is brown with a lacquer finish. This is a rare, oversized model—an unusual find among Cartier's vintage watches. Well-preserved examples are extremely difficult to locate, so the next arrival may be a long way off.