No Reserve: 1976 Cartier Jumbo Stepped Tank 1543

Cartier’s Jumbo Stepped Tank, reference 1543, stands as a distinctive interpretation of the maison’s iconic rectangular form, here presented in its larger “jumbo” format from 1976. This example offers collectors a well-preserved, honest watch that retains its original dial, case definition, and period-correct details, reflecting the enduring appeal of Cartier’s mid-1970s design language.

This is the Paris boutique version of the watch, reference 1543. Only max 5000 pieces of the ref: 1543 were ever made before it was discontinued in 1976.

Case. Gold plate, 20 microns, with the caseback engraved "Cartier," "PLAQUE OR G 20 M," "SWISS," alongside the oval maker's cartouche. Inner caseback stamped 5512 18 and 3885. The plating remains strong and even across bezel, flanks and lugs, with no brassing or exposed base metal observed anywhere on the case. On a plated case approaching fifty years old that is the exception rather than the rule, and it is the best thing about this example. Edges and step definition stay crisp, with no sign of refinishing. Light hairlines and handling marks are present throughout, most visible on the polished flanks and on the brushed caseback, which also carries a few shallow scratches and minor dings. Lug tips and corners show slight softening.

Dial and hands. White dial with black Roman numerals and railroad minute track, Cartier signature within the inner chapter, SWISS at six. It presents to us as original and unrestored, carrying a light even patina with faint tan toning at the perimeter and light speckling. We have not had the dial off the movement, so it is offered as photographed rather than guaranteed. A small surface scuff sits in the lower left quadrant near the inner track. Printing elsewhere is crisp and unbroken. Blued steel sword hands are intact, evenly colored, free of corrosion.

Crystal. Plexiglass with light scratching and minor surface haze consistent with age.

Crown. Beaded crown with blue cabochon, present and undamaged.

Movement. Manual wind, Cartier signed, 17 jewels, with clean plates and bridges showing normal light aging. No service history accompanies the watch.

Strap and buckle. Original black Cartier lizard strap stamped Swiss Made, with a signed gold plated Cartier buckle. The strap carries the heaviest wear on the watch: pronounced creasing, elongated and torn holes, surface cracking, finish loss along its length and lining wear at the case end. The buckle is intact and signed, with light plating wear and hairlines. Both are original to the watch and included as shown.

Included. Watch, original strap, original signed buckle.

Not included. Box, papers, service records.