Cartier Tank Vermeil – 1970s – La Californienne Turquoise Dial – Manual Wind

Offered for sale is a distinctive Cartier Tank Vermeil dating from the 1970s, powered by a traditional hand-wound mechanical movement.

Measuring approximately 23 mm in width, the watch has the elegant, understated proportions that made the Cartier Tank one of the most recognisable watch designs of the 20th century. It is presented in good vintage condition, with some patina and age-related signs of wear that give the watch an attractive and authentic character.

La Californienne customization

What makes this example particularly special is its striking turquoise-blue dial, customized by La Californienne.

La Californienne was founded in Los Angeles in 2016 by Courtney Ormond and vintage-watch enthusiast Leszek Garwacki. The company became known for giving classic vintage watches—particularly Cartier Tank and Rolex models—a colourful Californian identity. Its designs were inspired by the pastel tones of California’s landscapes and “magic hour,” combining traditional watchmaking icons with playful, contemporary colours.

Interestingly, the company’s story began with a vintage Cartier Tank. The founders wanted to give the timeless design a more personal and colourful appearance, leading them to refinish its dial and pair it with a distinctive strap. This idea became the foundation of La Californienne’s recognizable style.

For its customized vintage watches, La Californienne carefully refinished existing dials in specially selected colours rather than simply reproducing the original factory appearance. This turquoise dial is therefore a deliberate artistic customization and not an original Cartier factory configuration. La Californienne is an independent company and is not affiliated with Cartier.

The turquoise colour gives this classic Tank a fresh and expressive appearance while preserving its unmistakable vintage character. The contrast between the vibrant dial and the warm Vermeil case makes it a particularly charming and unusual example.

The watch is accompanied by its La Californienne certificate, documenting the customization. Several additional straps are also included, making it easy to change the appearance of the watch according to the occasion or personal style.

A wonderful choice for someone looking for an elegant vintage Cartier with a distinctive story and a less conventional, colourful character.

Details:

Brand: Cartier
Model: Tank Vermeil
Period: 1970s
Movement: Mechanical, manually wound
Case width: Approximately 23 mm
Case: Vermeil
Dial: Turquoise blue, customized and refinished by La Californienne
Condition: Good vintage condition, with patina and age-related signs of wear
Included: La Californienne certificate and several additional straps
Please note: The dial is a later independent customization and is not an original Cartier factory configuration

Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and provide the best impression of the watch’s cosmetic condition. Feel free to contact me for further information or additional photographs.