Born in 1996 as a bold new chapter of a design first inspired by a World War I tank, the Tank Française quickly became a true Parisian icon. Princess Diana wore hers in gold, Michelle Obama chose steel for her official White House portrait, and Meghan Markle treated herself to a two-tone Tank Française to celebrate a new season of Suits. Whether it becomes a gift for your wife or a daily treat for yourself, it slips into real life with effortless French style.

Presents itself in mint condition with little to no signs of wear. Set against a soft white grained dial, bold black Roman numerals hide a tiny secret Cartier signature within the VII. Pointing the way, blued steel sword hands flash a deep ocean blue whenever they catch the light. Framed by brushed flanks and mirror-polished edges, the case shifts from soft matte to bright shine with every turn. Wrapped around the wrist, the bracelet pairs brushed steel with warm 18K yellow gold bars, and its links echo the original tank’s tracks.

Functions include hours and minutes. Powered by the Cartier caliber 157 quartz movement, it keeps accurate time on a small battery with no winding needed. Topped with a blue synthetic spinel cabochon, the octagonal 18K yellow gold crown at 3 o’clock is what sets the time. To set it, gently pull it out to its only setting position, turn it until the time is correct, then push it back in until it sits flush. Water-resistant to 30 meters, it is happy with rain and hand washing, but best kept out of the pool.

Few designs manage to feel just as right in a boardroom as they do at a Sunday brunch. Timeless enough for Paris and easy enough for every single day, it is the kind of piece that becomes part of your story. Something tells us it would look right at home on your wrist, or on hers.