Cartier Tank “Pallisandre de Rio” “Tank Wood” Mohogany Ref 21611 from 1975

Cartier Tank “Pallisandre de Rio” ref. 21611 – The Legendary Tank Wood (Circa 1975–1976)

An extraordinary and highly elusive creation from Cartier’s most experimental era, the Cartier Tank “Pallisandre de Rio”, also known as the Tank Wood, stands as one of the rarest and most intriguing Tank models ever produced. Crafted in the mid-1970s, this watch perfectly captures Cartier’s willingness to push boundaries in design, material choice, and artistic expression.

Produced in extremely limited numbers and discontinued shortly after its introduction, this is a true collector’s piece that sits at the intersection of horology, design, and sculpture.

The Story – Cartier’s Boldest Material Experiment

During the mid-1970s, Cartier explored unconventional materials that broke away from traditional precious metals. Among these experiments, the Pallisandre de Rio stands out as the most daring and poetic. Using real exotic wood, Cartier created a Tank unlike any before or after.

It is widely accepted that only approximately 3,000 examples were produced between 1975 and 1976, before the model was discontinued—making this one of the rarest Tank references to ever exist.

The Case – Classic Tank Proportions, Radical Execution

The case measures 25 × 33 mm, offering the timeless elegance and perfect proportions that define the Tank line. While the silhouette remains unmistakably Cartier, the execution is entirely unconventional.

The case retains strong geometry with sharp edges and well-defined lines, and it is in excellent, crisp condition, a rarity for this reference. The combination of precious metal construction and wood elements creates a striking contrast that feels both warm and architectural.

Completing the case is the iconic blue sapphire cabochon crown, adding a subtle yet unmistakable Cartier signature and a refined pop of color.

The Dial – A Masterpiece in Wood

The true heart of this watch is its stunning wooden dial, crafted from Pallisandre de Rio wood. Each dial is inherently unique, with natural grain patterns ensuring that no two examples are exactly alike.

The dial radiates warmth and depth, offering a completely different visual experience compared to traditional lacquer or enamel dials. Paired with golden hands, the overall aesthetic is both luxurious and organic—bold yet understated, vintage yet timeless.

This dial is beautifully preserved, making it an exceptional example of one of Cartier’s most daring dial designs.

The Movement – Reliable Vintage Cartier Craftsmanship

Inside beats a manual-wind Cartier movement, reflecting the maison’s commitment to refined, elegant watchmaking. The watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is keeping excellent time, ensuring it is not only collectible, but also perfectly wearable.

Strap & Buckle – Original and Correct

The watch is fitted with its original Cartier leather strap, an important and increasingly rare detail for collectors. It is paired with a Cartier vermeil pin buckle, perfectly period-correct and in harmony with the watch’s vintage character.

Key Details

• Model: Cartier Tank “Pallisandre de Rio” / Tank Wood

• Reference: 21611

• Era: Circa 1975–1976

• Production: Approx. 3,000 pieces, discontinued

• Case Size: 25 × 33 mm

• Dial: Original Pallisandre de Rio Wood Dial

• Hands: Gold

• Crown: Blue Sapphire Cabochon

• Movement: Manual Wind Cartier Movement

• Strap: Original Cartier Leather Strap

• Buckle: Cartier Vermeil Pin Buckle

• Condition: Sharp case, beautiful dial, excellent overall vintage condition

• Service: Recently serviced, keeping time excellent

Why This Watch?

The Cartier Tank Pallisandre de Rio is not just rare—it is conceptually special. It represents a fleeting moment when Cartier dared to challenge tradition and redefine luxury through unexpected materials. Few watches encapsulate the spirit of 1970s Cartier innovation as powerfully as this one.

With its limited production, exotic wood dial, exceptional condition, and unmistakable design, this Tank Wood is a true grail for advanced Cartier collectors. An artistic statement, a historical artifact, and a wearable icon—this is Cartier at its most daring and most collectible.