A fake Cartier Tank Must Cor de Chasseur is a replica of the Cartier Tank Must with a hunter green dial. The genuine watch is a steel quartz model, and the best replicas match its 33.7 mm by 25.5 mm case and lacquered finish. However, flaws often show up in the crown cabochon, caseback engravings, and strap quality.
What Does "Cor de Chasseur" Mean?
"Cor de chasseur" is a French term for hunter green, a deep green with subtle blue undertones. Cartier uses this color on some Tank Must models, though the brand officially calls it green. The dial is lacquered, which gives it a glossy, uniform look. Replicas that use a flat or olive green paint miss the mark.
Key Features of the Genuine Cartier Tank Must
Before judging a replica, know the original. The Cartier Tank Must is a modern take on the 1970s Must de Cartier line. It has a steel case, a quartz movement, and a synthetic spinel cabochon on the crown. The dial features Roman numerals, blued-steel sword hands, and a secret signature in the VII numeral. The strap is usually alligator or calf leather.
- Case size: 33.7 mm x 25.5 mm (large model)
- Thickness: 6.6 mm
- Movement: Quartz (some models use SolarBeat)
- Water resistance: 30 meters
- Crystal: Sapphire
What to Look for in a High-Quality Fake
A premium 1:1 replica should match the original in these areas:
- Dial color: The hunter green must be deep and rich, not muddy or bright.
- Case proportions: The lugs should be slim and curved, matching the Tank silhouette.
- Crown: The cabochon should be blue and smooth, not a cheap plastic bead.
- Caseback: Engravings should be crisp, with correct font and serial number placement.
- Strap: Leather should feel supple, with neat stitching and a signed buckle.
Common Flaws in Cheap Replicas
Low-end fakes of the Cartier Tank Must Cor de Chasseur often have:
- Wrong shade of green (too light or too yellow)
- Misaligned Roman numerals or a crooked secret signature
- Wobbly crown that does not sit flush
- Fuzzy caseback lettering
- Stiff, plastic-feeling strap
- Loud quartz ticking
Movement: Quartz vs. Automatic
The genuine Tank Must uses a quartz movement. Some replicas try to pass off an automatic movement, but that is incorrect for this model. A good fake will use a reliable Swiss or Japanese quartz. The SolarBeat version, which uses light to power the watch, is not replicated well. If a replica claims SolarBeat, treat it with suspicion.
Price and Value
Replica prices range from budget to premium tiers. A high-quality fake with correct dial color, sapphire crystal, and a leather strap costs more than a cheap knockoff. The difference shows in details like the cabochon, the weight of the case, and the smoothness of the crown. For buyers seeking a 1:1 replica, focus on these details rather than the lowest price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cartier Tank Must Cor de Chasseur a real model?
Yes, Cartier produces a Tank Must with a green dial. "Cor de chasseur" is a nickname used by enthusiasts, not an official Cartier name.
Can I tell a fake from a real one?
Yes. Check the crown cabochon, the caseback engravings, and the dial color. A real Cartier has a flawless lacquered dial and a perfectly set cabochon.
How much does a good replica cost?
Prices vary, but expect to pay more for correct materials and movement. Very cheap replicas usually have obvious flaws.