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 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 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.
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An elegant choice for boardroom meetings, cocktail parties or refined dinners, this vintage Cartier Tank Française Ref. 3217 in stainless steel and yellow gold brings timeless sophistication. Its iconic rectangular case and Roman numerals elevate tailored looks by day and add polished finesse to evening ensembles.
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 are the size and proportions of the Tank Française Ref. 3217? A: The small model measures approximately 20 × 25 mm across the case, giving a compact, elegant presence on the wrist. On this piece the bracelet is currently sized to around 16 cm in circumference; two spare links are included for extra length. Please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact figures and contact us if you need sizing advice.
Q: What movement does this watch use and how accurate is it? A: It is powered by a Swiss-made quartz movement for dependable, set‑and‑forget accuracy. Quartz Tanks are prized for their reliability and low‑maintenance ownership compared with mechanical models.
Q: How water-resistant is it, and can I swim with it? A: The Tank Française range is typically rated to 3 bar/30 metres. This means it is splash‑resistant for everyday wear but not designed for swimming, showering or diving. Avoid exposing the crown to water when it is pulled out, and have water‑resistance checked periodically to maintain the seal integrity.
Q: How often will the battery need replacing? A: Cartier advises an average battery life of about 2–3 years. When changing the battery, have it done by Cartier or an authorised watchmaker so the case gaskets are replaced and the watch is pressure‑tested at the same time.
Q: How do I set the time? A: Gently pull the crown to the time‑setting position, turn to set the hands, then press the crown back in to restart the movement. If your particular dial variant includes a date, avoid adjusting the date between approximately 8 pm and 4 am to protect the mechanism.
Q: How do I resize the bracelet, and what’s included for sizing? A: The integrated metal bracelet is adjusted by adding or removing links. This watch comes with two extra link pieces. We recommend having sizing performed by Cartier or a competent jeweller; link removal is reversible and does not constitute a permanent personalisation.
Q: What materials and signature details does this reference feature? A: This example is crafted in stainless steel with yellow‑gold accents and features a sapphire crystal, blued‑steel sword‑shaped hands, and a crown set with a blue spinel‑shaped cabochon—hallmarks of the Tank design.
Q: When was the Tank Française introduced, and where does Ref. 3217 sit in the line-up? A: The Tank Française debuted in the mid‑1990s with an integrated metal bracelet and more angular brancards. Ref. 3217 is the small model within this family and is most commonly found with a quartz movement.
Q: What accessories are included with this particular watch? A: This item includes the box, warranty card and two link pieces. Everything included is listed under Accessories; if you need clarification, please contact us.
Q: How do you authenticate and check the condition of this watch? A: Every piece at A Retro Tale undergoes multi‑point authentication and condition assessment by our in‑house experts, including checks of materials, finishing, engravings/serials and movement performance. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and are happy to share additional photos or details on request.
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 offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
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.
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.
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.
/ Cartier
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Tank Watches
4 382 €
• Stainless steel and yellow gold
• Rectangular case
• Cream dial with black Roman numerals
• Blued-steel sword-shaped hands
• Crown set with a synthetic blue spinel cabochon
• Swiss-made quartz movement
• Vintage
