A Cartier Tank watch sold for an astonishing $379,500 at auction, a staggering amount for this model. The watch was estimated to fetch between $60,000 and $120,000 but tripled the higher estimate when the hammer fell at Christie’s. Collectors are eagerly acquiring pieces with historical significance, and this particular Tank was gifted to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis—ex-wife of John F. Kennedy—by her brother-in-law, Prince Stanislaw Radziwill, who was married to Jacqueline’s sister. The watch was given to commemorate the family’s completion of a 50-mile walk in Palm Beach, although Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy did not finish the entire distance but did participate.
The 50-mile walk message was promoted by John F. Kennedy during his presidency, prior to his assassination. The inscription on the caseback of the watch reads, "Stas to Jackie 23 Feb. 63 2:05 AM to 9:35 PM." The Cartier watch measures 20mm by 28mm and features a characterful case made of solid 14k gold, along with a cabochon sapphire crown and manual wind movement. The dial is silver with Roman numerals and blue hands. This classic design is still produced today, though now in 18k gold, while retaining all the charm of the vintage Cartier Tanks.
A timeless classic by Cartier, it would be great to see what other watches at auction are fetching, given their provenance and history attached to famous persons.