Top 12 Best Affordable Alternatives to Cartier Tank
The Cartier Tank is a watch that needs no introduction. It’s a timepiece with an iconic design that has remained virtually the same for more than a century, and which has been worn and appreciated by countless celebrities and prominent people.
A question that is interesting to ask is ”what makes an icon?”. There are quite a few watch designs that are as iconic as the Cartier Tank, including the Rolex Submariner, and Patek Philippe Nautilus, to name a few. And what is interesting about all of these watches is that ever since they were originally released, their designs have remained very similar to their original designs. This goes to show that own order to create an iconic watch, it needs to have a timeless design. And Cartier has evidently succeeded with this.
With its distinct rectangular case shape and perhaps art-deco design, the Cartier tank has established itself as not only one of the most iconic watches but also one of the most elegant.
But whilst the Cartier Tank is a highly popular and iconic timepiece, it is a luxury watch from a luxury brand, which means it naturally comes with a luxury price tag. A new Cartier tank will set you back from around 5000 dollars to tens of thousands of dollars depending on which version you choose.
Obviously, not everyone is willing to spend that kind of money on a wristwatch, which is why we have created this list of the best and most popular affordable alternatives to the Cartier Tank. These are watches that capture the essence of the Cartier Tank, with simplicity, class, and elegance.
Let’s define some of the most iconic design traits of the Cartier Tank that we have used for this list. The watches may include some, but not necessarily all of these. Further on, we’ll also look at the history of the Cartier Tank as well as all of the most important things you need to consider when making your pick.
Best affordable Cartier Tank alternatives
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Bulova Classic 96A169
First up, we have the Bulova Classic quartz. This watch is presented with a rectangular case with a diameter of 35mm and an overall simple and clean design. As you can see, it’s certainly not a homage to the Cartier tank, but more so a watch that captures a similar ethos, although this watch looks sportier. It has a rectangular case and is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet which is integrated into the case. The case design is clean and simple with a sleek profile and a mostly polished finish.
Just like the Tank, the dial of this Bulova Watch is kept relatively simple. It has a blue sunburst finish with applied metal hour markers and simple yet elegant sword-shaped hands. On top of the case sits a curved mineral glass.
With its minimalistic case design and dial, paired with a slightly larger case size and a stainless steel bracelet, it is a watch that has an interesting combination of sportiness and elegance. It will work well for formal occasions, but it will also work just as well for everyday wear. But remember that this is not made as a sports watch and thus not meant for the harshest environments. In addition, the water resistance isn’t great at 30m.
Overall, this is a timepiece that could be suitable if you enjoy rectangular watches and the design of the Cartier Tank but also do not want a copy or homage and also want something more versatile that can be worn on more occasions.
Specifications
- Diameter: 35mm
- Crystal: curved mineral
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Movement: Quartz
Citizen Eco-Drive Large Stiletto AR3104-55E
In many ways, the Citizen Large Stiletto AR3104-55E reminds of the Cartier Tank but in many ways, it’s also quite different. But that’s what I like about this timepiece.
First off, it has an interesting and rather funky case design with a diameter of 28mm and a length of 38mm. The case has virtually no lugs and is designed as a rectangular piece where the bracelet integrates seamlessly into the edges of the case. With that said it is presented on a gold and steel metal bracelet which is as slim and comfortable as the watch itself and goes well with its, perhaps retro.. design. On top of the case sits a sapphire crystal.
Naturally, the dial takes up most of this watch’s property, as should be the case for a Tank watch. It has a black dial with a striking sunburst finish, and yellow-gold metal hour markers at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The hands are also made in yellow gold and have a sleek and elegant shape to them. The result is a watch that captures the essence of the Cartier Tank of ultimate elegance and class, and achieving that through the Cartier’s approach of ”less is more”.
Inside this watch is an Eco-Drive quartz caliber from Citizen, meaning it gets energy from solar and ambient light. This is a convenient feature since it means you won’t have to replace its battery. What is also interesting is that in 2021, Cartier announced it would release the ”Solarbeat” Tank Must, which also uses a solar quartz movement.
Overall, this Citizen watch is most appropriate on formal occasions and with formal attire. At the same time, due to the use of the metal bracelet, it becomes slightly more versatile. Now, it’s not a sports watch, but versatile enough for a pair of jeans and a shirt. In my view, this watch also ticks the Cartier box of timeless design. Not to the same extent as the Cartier, but it could very well be a model that still works several decades from now.
Specifications
- Diameter: 28mm
- Length: 38mm
- Movement: quartz Eco-Drive
- Thickness. 5.06mm
Tissot Heritage Banana Centenary Edition T117.509.36.032.00
The Tissot Heritage Banana Centenary Edition T117.509.36.032.00 stands out with its long rectangular rose gold case but also has a traditional and simple design similar to the Cartier. As a matter of fact, it reminds a lot about the Tank Americaine, which is a watch that is known for its longer case that is more rectangular than the regular Tank. The case of this watch measures 49mm in length, has a diameter of 27mm, and a thickness of 7mm.
The case has no real lugs but a mineral crystal on top. The water resistance is 30m/100 feet which obviously isn’t very impressive, but at the same time, it is a dress watch. It is also presented on a brown leather strap which aligns well with its elegant purpose and design, making it appropriate for formal occasions. It is powered by a quartz movement.
The dial is simple with silver background, but what stands out a bit is the large Franck Muller-style Arabic numerals on the dial. It’s nothing that harms the classic design of this watch, but it is certainly an interesting touch.
All in all, This Tissot Heritage Banana ticks most of the boxes of the Cartier Tank, yet is offered at a price of just over 200 dollars. It’s a watch that is primarily suitable for formal occasions, or that will look extremely well on men who enjoy wearing formal attire for their everyday.
Specifications
- Crystal: mineral crystal
- Length: 49mm
- Diameter: 27mm
- Thickness: 7mm
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Movement: quartz
Bulova 97B162
Something more eye-catching is this Bulova Dress watch in yellow gold, but I also want to mention that it is also available in stainless steel if you want something a little more discreet and toned down. The case design with a diameter of 31mm reminds a lot about the Cartier tank in many ways and is designed for pure elegance. With a price tag of around 200 dollars, the case is quite nicely finished with brushed lugs, a polished bezel, and a good contrast of brushed and polished elements.
The watch has a classic silver dial with a sunburst finish and applied metal Roman numerals. At 6 o’clock, it has a date window for convenience’s sake. Inside is a quartz movement.
To go with the elegant and classy theme, it is of course presented on a brown embossed leather strap, giving it a real gentleman’s look. With that said, the water resistance is only 30m
In a way, this Bulova Watch is like the Citizen in the way that it speaks for itself. Iconic, simple, and minimalistic designs don’t need much explanation – they simply speak for themselves. But naturally, it is more of a dress watch above anything else.
Specifications
- Crystal: curved mineral
- Movement: quartz
- Diameter: 31mm
- Water resistance: 30m
Bulova Sinatra Collection 98A261
Another suitable alternative to the Cartier Tank is this Bulova Watch. What stands out about this timepiece is that it has a design that is evidently vintage-inspired. Instead of having a more minimalistic and simple design, it features design elements and traits that are meant to make it more retro. Bulova describes the design in the following way:
”The Frank Sinatra collection draws design inspiration from the 1950s and 1960s”. As part of the Sinatra collection, it incorporates ”vintage Bulova designs with the unmistakable elements of legendary performer”.
First and foremost, it features a rectangular case that reminds of the Cartier Tank. At the same time, it has some interesting details that make the case more retro and interesting such as the extended lug design which fits the leather strap perfectly. And to top it off, the yellow gold crown. For the crystal, Bulova uses a curved sapphire crystal.
The dial is the real highlight of this watch and the part of the watch that Bulova has paid the most attention to in terms of finishing. Firstly, it has a beautiful textured brushed grey finish which is in turn contrasted by yellow gold hands and yellow gold hour markers in a classic design. At 6 o’clock, it has a sub-seconds dial for the seconds. On the dial, we also find Sinatra’s signature under the Bulova logo. The theme of Frank Sinatra is carried on through the case back where you find his iconic Fedora hat etched on the gold-tone crown and on the case back, along with the text ”My Way”.
All in all, this is an appropriate alternative to the Cartier Tank for someone who wants a classic, elegant, and vintage-inspired timepiece.
Specifications
- Crystal: curved sapphire
- Water resistance: 30m
- Movement: quartz
- Diameter: 29.5 millimeters
- Thickness: 9.05 millimeters
Fossil Architect FS5803
The Fossil Architect is presented with a beautiful stainless steel case that measures 40mm in length. The case has a really interesting design with ”steps” on its edges giving it an impression of being more luxurious.
The dial is equally classic as the case with a black background and white Roman numerals with a textured finish around the edge. The dial also has a sunburst finish to it to make it more vibrant and alive. Around the outer edge of the dial, it also has Cartier’s iconic rail markers for the minutes. On top of the case, it has a mineral crystal.
It is powered by a quartz movement and has a water resistance of 50m, but obviously, it is not the type of watch that you’d go swimming with. It is presented on a black leather strap to give it a more classy appearance for formal occasions.
If you’re looking for understated class and timeless elegance, it is a suitable alternative to the Cartier Tank with its price tag of around 100 dollars which is extremely affordable for what you are getting.
Specifications
- Crystal: mineral
- Movement: quartz
- Water resistance: 50mm
- Measurement: 40mm
Citizen two-tone BH1678-56E
If you want a watch that catches the essence of the Cartier Tank but also something that is slightly more versatile, this Citizen BH1678-56E could be a watch for you.
It is presented with a rectangular case with a diameter of 26mm with a polished bezel and a gold and steel bracelet that integrates into the case seamlessly. On top of the case, it has a mineral crystal. The actual case shape and design look very similar to that of the Tank, so Citizen has done a good job here.
The water resistance of this timepiece is 30m and it is powered by a quartz movement,
The dial is elegant yet simple with a black background and a subtle striped pattern at the center. The dial features applied yellow gold hour markers with a yellow gold finish and yellow gold hands. At 3 o’clock, it has a date window discreetly integrated which can be practical to have. On the outer part of the dial, it also has a sunburst finish, making it more vibrant.
The combination of yellow gold and steel, paired with an overall classic case design and a bracelet that makes it slightly more sporty is a success from Citizen in terms of design. Whilst it obviously is primarily intended as a dress watch, it can also work as an everyday watch for slightly more formal occasions thanks to the bracelet.
Specifications
- Diameter: 26mm
- Movement: quartz
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
Timex Dress Rectangular
This one is certainly more bold and more sporty than the classic Cartier Tank, but with its rectangular case shape, it still offers a nod to the Tank. It features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 33mm with a polished finish and a seamlessly integrated stainless steel bracelet. On top of the case, it has a mineral crystal.
As for the dial, it is made to be simple and minimalistic with a black sunburst-finished dial and only has applied markers for 3, 6, and 9. For added elegance, it also has a diamond at 12 o’clock. The hands are simple, elegant, and small and don’t take up too much of the dial’s property.
Powering this watch is a quartz movement, and the water resistance is 30m/100 feet.
In my opinion, this watch could be a bit ”too much” for some, which is interesting because it is still a minimalistic and simple watch. But this just goes to show just how important simplicity is for the design of the Cartier Tank overall. The good news is that with its slightly more sporty appearance, it becomes more versatile and could work as an everyday watch.
Specifications
- Crystal: Mineral glass
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Movement: quartz
- Diameter: 33mm
Seiko SUP880 Rectangular
Of all the watches on this list, the Seiko SUP880. The reason for this is simple – it is the most similar to the Cartier tank that offers true Cartier elegance, but without blatantly ripping off the design.
This watch has a yellow gold-tone case with a diameter of 28.5mm which looks more or less the same as that of a Cartier Tank. Even the crown at 3 o’clock as a jewel on the edge to use Cartier’s iconic design feature. For the crystal, it uses Hardlex. A nice feature of this watch is that it is powered by a Solar quartz movement which gets charged by ambient and solar light, thus eliminating the need of replacing the battery. When fully charged, it has a power reserve of 12 months.
Since this is a dress watch, its water resistance of 30m/100 feet is what we expect. As for the dial, it has obviously taken quite a bit of inspiration from Cartier with its black Roman numerals, dauphine-shaped hands, and white-striped dial.
All in all this beautiful dress watch is a watch that offers great elegance yet minimalism. It makes for a really classy dress watch that will complement any formal outfit really well. To round it off, it is presented on a black embossed leather strap. Oh, and with a price of around 150 dollars, it is also really affordable.
Specifications
- Diameter: 28.5mm
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Movement: Solar quartz
- Power reserve: 12 months
Seiko SUP896 Solar Rectangular
For a rectangular dress watch with a gentleman style and a nod to the Cartier Tank, you may want to consider the Seiko SUP896.
Whilst still an elegant design, this watch has a slightly bulkier and sporty case, and I would see this watch working best for an elegant gentleman, and perhaps even as an everyday watch for gentlemen.
It has a yellow gold-tone case with a diameter of 28.1mm and a Hardlex crystal on top. The bezel sits slightly raised and the lugs extend from the case in the same distinct way as the Cartier tank. As a result, the strap integrates really well on this watch. Speaking of trap, this one is equipped with a brown embossed leather strap which certainly contributes to its classic and classy appearance.
The watch has a yellow gold-tone dial with a sunburst finish and applied yellow gold metal hour markers and hands. Whilst it does allow for a luxurious and striking appearance, it is also making this watch rather eye-catching and bold. For some, it’s just right, for others, it may be a bit too much.
The watch is powered by a solar quartz movement, powered by solar and ambient light, and is resistant to water up to 50m.
Specifications
- Crystal: Hardlex
- Movement: Solar quartz
- Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
- Diameter: 28.1mm
Peugeot Rectangular 14K Gold
The Peugeot watch has clearly taken a few design traits from the Cartier Tank, including obviously the case, but also the dial.
It features a 14k gold-plated case with a diameter of 30mm and a length of 40mm. The lugs extend from the case which gives a seamless look where the embossed leather strap fits into the case very well.
The dial is a silver color with a classic Cartier signature pattern at the center and large Roman numerals around the outer edge of the dial. Furthermore, it has vintage blued metallic hands which is yet an additional signature design trait of Cartier watches.
It is powered by a quartz movement made by Seiko and has a water resistance of 30m.
To conclude, this watch makes a great everyday work dress watch, in particular, if you wear formal attire every day, but also on formal occasions of course. Simplicity and elegance made into one are what make this watch a good choice, especially considering the fact that it only costs around 60 dollars. And with its many Tank-inspired design elements, it’s a great choice for Cartier lovers.
Specifications
- Length: 40mm
- Diameter: 30mm
- Movement: quartz
Bulova Corporate Collection Rectangular 96A156
Lastly, we have the Bulova Corporate Collection 96A156 which is a masculine, elegant, and classic timepiece made for formal occasions. With its slightly longer case shape, it is more similar to the Tank Americain. The steel case shape is in fact very similar with its extended lugs and curved ends with a polished finish.
The watch features a classic silver dial with a sunburst finish for a classic look and has applied metal hour markers, paired with short metal hands.
The water resistance is, unsurprisingly, not the best at 30m, but still enough for this type of timepiece.
With a price tag of around 100 dollars, it certainly deserves to be a part of the list of affordable alternatives to the Cartier Tank. Overall, the design looks similar to the Tank but without copying its design. And furthermore, the minimalistic design makes it suitable for any formal occasion to finish off your outfit in a classy and subtle way.
Specifications
- Movement: quartz
- Water resistance: 30m
Distinct features of the Cartier tank?
What makes an iconic watch? A lot of people would argue a distinct and unique design that can be instantly recognizable. The most important design features include:
Rectangular/square case
The most important and defining part of the Cartier Tank is obviously its rectangular case. The Tank has become synonymous with the rectangular watch shape, and since then, many other manufacturers have followed after. Really, the rectangular case doesn’t need any introduction. It’s a refreshing take on the wristwatch and a nice option in a world where most watches have round cases.
Minimalistic/simple design
The Cartier Tank is appreciated for its minimalistic elegance and understated class. This watch is all about subtly and discreetly enhancing your style without stealing the show. For the most part, the details and decorations are kept at a minimum in order to retain that classic look that has always been true for the Tank.
Leather strap
Whilst some Tanks are available on metal bracelets today, a leather strap is and will always be the most classic and traditional strap option. The Cartier Tank is most known when it is presented on a leather strap, and it is also the strap option that most Tanks come with. However, there are also Cartier Tanks with metal bracelets for a more sporty look, and this is why we have included some affordable Cartier Tank options above that have metal bracelets.
History of the Cartier Tank
A watch doesn’t become an icon overnight. To understand its huge popularity and iconic status, we need to start at the beginning. The Cartier Tank was first released in 1918 and was designed by Louis Cartier.
Over the years, the Cartier has been made in countless different iterations and versions and is still in production today. Large, small, quartz, automatic, gold, steel, and so on… In addition, Cartier has also made sub-models of the Tank, which are watches that have slightly different designs but still capture the essence and core concept of the Tank. This includes models such as the Tank Francaise, Tank Cintree, Tank Anglaise, Tank Louis, and many more. With that said, there truly is a lot to choose from in the range of Cartier Tank, both modern and vintage.
As already mentioned, the Cartier Tank has been worn by many prominent and famous people, which obviously contributed to the great success and iconic status of the watch. But what makes this model stand out is its art-deco elegance and minimalism that truly makes it a dress watch out of the ordinary.
Affordable Cartier Tank alternatives – buyer’s guide
As you have seen above, there are many different designs when it comes to the Cartier tank alternatives, but also when it comes to the standard Cartier collection. At the same time, all of these watches share a lot of similarities, and all follow the same theme and ethos with a focus on the more dressy side of things. But still, there are a few things you want to consider:
Automatic or quartz
The Cartier Tank is available both with quartz and automatic movements and so are the affordable alternatives. Quartz and automatic both have their pros and cons, and which of these you opt for depends on your own taste and preferences. Watch enthusiasts naturally gravitate towards automatic since they appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail behind an automatic movement. But quartz offers the benefit of being more affordable, more accurate, and cheaper to maintain. With this said, consider which of these you prefer to narrow down your alternatives.
Size
Whilst the Cartier Tank is for the most part quite small in order to achieve an elegant and classic look, both the original Cartier Tank and alternatives are available in many different sizes. And size is always an important aspect as different people have different wrist sizes and it will affect how a watch feels on the wrist. If you want to achieve a more elegant look, then it is probably best to opt for a watch with a smaller case, but if you have a large wrist, you should look for a watch with a larger size.
Water resistance
Since the Cartier Tank is by no means a sports watch, the water resistance isn’t as important as on other watches. After all, this watch is not meant to be worn anywhere near the water. But it can still be good to keep this in mind as the water resistance does vary depending on the models you choose.
Strap or bracelet?
Since most people who are looking for a watch that reminds of the Cartier tank are looking for an elegant timepiece that can be worn on formal occasions, most people will gravitate towards leather straps since this is the most formal option. But as you have seen in the list above, there are also options with metal bracelets if you prefer something more sporty. This comes down to preference and how you intend to wear and use the watch.
Dial color
Since the Cartier Tank is meant to be an elegant and classic timepiece, you’ll primarily find (and most likely want?) simple and discreet colors like silver, white, black, and dark blue. The Cartier Tank is most known for a silver/white dial but it can be good to consider which dial color you want to narrow down your alternatives
Gold or steel?
As you have seen above, there are options in gold, steel, or both gold and steel. The most discreet is naturally stainless steel but gold or gold and steel options give a much more elegant and luxurious look to the watch which is great if you want a watch that looks more classy. The original Cartier Tank is available in both gold and steel, so either of these will make sense if you’re looking for a Tank alternative that looks very similar to the original.
How similar do you want it to be?
When considering any type of alternative to a watch, it’s good to consider how similar or different you want it to be. There are of course homage Cartier Tank watches, which essentially take the design of the original design and put a different logo on the dial. But some people want something that is a bit more unique and isn’t a blatant “copy”. The good news is that there are also plenty of choices of watches that have their own design but remind of the Cartier Tank in one way or another. Perhaps they have taken some of the design elements of the Cartier Tank, but not blatantly stolen its design.
