Cartier tank Francaise watch - thoughts?

[passionfruity]

I'm thinking of treating myself to this for a big birthday as I would like something classic that I can wear everyday.

If you have one, does it still look nice after a couple of years or does it scratch easily etc?

Also, has anyone ever bought a 'pre-loved' (second-hand!) one in good condition?

I have the stainless steel one and its umm about 6 years old and looks as good as new.

I love it.

I have been lusting wanting one of these for ages and promising myself one as a' well done' to me - for anything I can think oF - - one day! would love to know if my lusting-- wanting is worthwhile!

It really is a lovely watch and gone up in price quite a bit since DH bought mine.

Thanks MRSCB!! - gnashes teeth - would rather hear it is rubbish and a waste of lusting - - but suspicions confirmed and now I WANT ONE NOW!

And my battery lasted for about 4 years - a worthwhile investment

It is a lovely watch but I will say that they do not hold their value if you wished to sell it on one day (take a look at the watch sales that are coming up at the big auction houses in the next week or two). Because of this, it is not necessarily a good investment in watch terms but that doesn't matter if you love it (or so I tell myself...).

I would consider a 'pre-loved' watch from a reputable dealer - it should be several thousand pounds cheaper that way and not necessarily a bad deal for being second hand. Key thing to look for if you went down this route is a complete Cartier in-house service history (definitely all battery changes and, preferably, an annual service) and original purchase paperwork/guarantee.

Would love one, in fact it is top of my list for my big birthday which gives Dh a couple of years to start saving.

My plan is that DD1 will get the engagement ring and DD2 the watch- so a pretty good way of spending the kids inheritance I think

Thanks, all!

Just to say I have the Tank Francaise too. It's beautiful: my forever watch. Had mine for 5 years. Had one battery replacement during that time. You must use Cartier to replace batteries, service the watch if necessary, because the casing needs to be professionally resealed. It's a worthy investment...

I am thinking of one too. Thanks for all the advice. Does anybody know any reputable dealers for second hand ones? I have heard of Austin Kaye.

What about Duty Free? is there much of a discount to be had there?

Hesitating between a Tank & a Santos Galbee (sorry no accents).

I would look at auction houses -- Soethby's and Christies have watch auction mostly men's watches.

Thanks Mirpuppet.

Have had mine for 12 years and have worn it everyday. Was a present when I had ds1. Best watch I've ever had and I love it. Replacement strap (stainless steel) expensive but have only needed one in 12 years