We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
A refined choice for black-tie events, gallery openings or elegant dinners, this vintage Cartier Tank Vermeil 21mm lends discreet sophistication to tailored suiting and cocktail attire alike; equally at home in the boardroom when you want a polished, timeless finish.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Cartier Tank Vermeil 21mm ca 1998 Watch? A: This is a classic vintage timepiece from the Must de Cartier line, produced circa 1998. It features a petite 21mm rectangular case crafted in vermeil (gold-plated sterling silver), a cream dial with black Roman numerals and blued-steel hands, and the signature blue cabochon crown.
Q: What does “vermeil” mean and how should I care for it? A: Vermeil is a specific type of high-quality gold plating over a sterling silver base. It offers a warm, luxurious finish but requires gentle care. To maintain the plating, wipe the watch with a soft, dry cloth after wear and avoid abrasive metal polishes, perfumes, and harsh chemicals. Store it in a dry place to prevent the silver base from tarnishing.
Q: What movement does this watch use? A: It is powered by a precision Cartier quartz movement. This ensures accurate timekeeping and ease of use compared to mechanical models, as it does not require daily winding. The battery typically lasts 2–3 years.
Q: Is the watch water-resistant? A: As a vintage piece from the late 1990s, the original water resistance cannot be guaranteed. We strongly recommend treating this watch as splash-resistant only and avoiding swimming, showering, or immersing it in water to protect the movement and the leather strap.
Q: What type of crystal does it have? A: This model is typically fitted with a mineral glass crystal, which was standard for many Must de Cartier Tank watches of this era. While durable, it is not as scratch-resistant as modern sapphire crystals, so care should be taken to avoid sharp impacts.
Q: Will it fit my wrist? A: The watch comes on a brown crocodile-embossed leather strap with a pin buckle and is designed to fit a wrist circumference of up to 18cm. The 21mm case width is a classic small size, suitable for those who prefer a discreet, elegant fit.
Q: What is the condition of this specific watch? A: This piece is in Very Good condition. It shows light traces of use consistent with its age, including minor scratches on the shiny hardware. The internal movement is also in very good condition.
Q: What is included with the purchase? A: This watch is listed as "no accessories," meaning it is sold as the watch only, without the original box or papers. It is fully authenticated by A Retro Tale and guaranteed to be 100% original.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Tank Watches
• Gold-plated sterling silver case, 21 mm
• Cream dial with black Roman numerals and blue steel hands
• Brown crocodile-embossed leather strap with a pin buckle closure
• Blue cabochon crown
• Quartz movement
• Vintage, circa 1998