Created as part of the celebrated Collection Privée Cartier Paris, the Tank à Vis Dual Time Ref. 2551 brings together three defining Cartier qualities: architectural design, mechanical sophistication and restrained elegance.

The CPCP collection marked Cartier’s renewed emphasis on the historic case designs and mechanical watchmaking traditions that established the Maison as one of the twentieth century’s great watch creators. Produced in precious metals and powered by carefully selected mechanical calibers, CPCP timepieces were conceived for collectors who appreciated Cartier not only as a jeweler and designer, but also as a serious watchmaker.

The Tank à Vis takes its name from the visible screws integrated into its distinctive case architecture. In the Ref. 2551, Cartier combines that construction with an exceptionally well-balanced dual-time display. Two vertically arranged guilloché registers feature black Roman numerals, railway minute tracks and blued steel sword hands. Despite displaying two separate time zones, the dial remains formal, symmetrical and unmistakably Cartier.

The watch is powered by the manually wound Cartier Calibre 9901 MC, developed from a Piaget ébauche and adapted specifically for the dual-time function. Both displays are operated through a single movement and sapphire cabochon-set crown. The lower hour indication may be advanced independently, allowing a second time zone to be set without disturbing the principal display. Visible through the sapphire exhibition caseback, the movement is decorated with the repeating double-C motif associated with the CPCP collection.

Dating to approximately 2006, this example is accompanied by its Cartier presentation box, certificate and accompanying papers and booklets. The 18K yellow gold case is fitted with a burgundy Cartier leather strap and signed Cartier 18K yellow gold deployant clasp.

Condition: This timepiece presents in very good overall condition, with light signs of careful wear consistent with its age.

The significance of the Tank à Vis Dual Time lies in the unusual completeness of its design.

It is unmistakably Cartier, yet considerably more mechanically interesting than a conventional Tank. It provides a practical travel complication without sacrificing symmetry or refinement. The yellow gold case, silvered guilloché dial, Roman numerals and blued steel hands speak Cartier's traditional design language, while the exposed case screws and sapphire exhibition back introduce a distinctly architectural and technical character.

Most importantly, the Ref. 2551 belongs to the Collection Privée Cartier Paris, one of the most consequential periods in Cartier’s modern watchmaking history. CPCP united historically informed design, mechanical calibers and comparatively limited precious-metal production at a time when much of Cartier’s broader catalogue pursued a more commercial direction.

The Ref. 2551 consequently occupies an appealing position within modern Cartier collecting. It is scarce without being obscure, complicated without appearing busy, and mechanically engaging without compromising the elegance for which Cartier is celebrated.

The presence of the Cartier presentation box, accompanying papers, Cartier leather strap and signed 18K yellow gold deployant clasp further strengthens this example. For the collector seeking an important modern Cartier beyond the more frequently encountered Tank Louis and Santos families, the Tank à Vis Dual Time offers a particularly thoughtful and distinctive proposition.