Since its launch in 1917, the Cartier Tank collection has become an iconic symbol in the watch industry, thanks to its highly recognizable rectangular case and design language inspired by military tank tracks. Among its lineup, the Tank Solo and Tank Must are often confused due to their similar positioning at first glance.
However, upon closer inspection, the Must—as a subsequent upgraded model—features comprehensive improvements in size, design, movement, and other aspects.
Today, we will break down these differences in detail
I. Tank Must vs. Tank Solo
1:Watch Size
Both models offer 3 size options, but the Must features a more compact case (in terms of length and width) under the same size designation—especially the Small size, which is significantly more delicate. This makes it ideal for users with slender wrists or those who prefer a “small and exquisite” style. The specific size comparison (length × width) is as follows:
Cartier Tank Solo Small Dimensions
The Cartier Tank Solo Small measures approximately 31 × 24.4 mm. This is the commonly listed case size for Tank Solo Small models, including references such as W5200000 and W1018755. The case thickness can vary by reference, with some Tank Solo Small models measuring approximately 5.55 mm thick.
For replacement straps, the lug width is also important. The Tank Solo Small is commonly listed with a 17 mm lug width, although some measurements may be closer to 17.5 mm depending on the specific reference and how the lug is measured. Always check your watch reference and measure the existing connection before ordering a replacement strap.
| Tank Solo Small Specification | Approximate Size |
|---|---|
| Case length | 31 mm |
| Case width | 24.4 mm |
| Case thickness | Approx. 5.55 mm* |
| Lug width | Approx. 17–17.5 mm* |
*Specifications can vary by reference. Confirm the exact watch reference and lug measurement before choosing a replacement strap.
Watch Size Guide For Cartier Tank Must & Tank Solo
Different Lug Size Between Tank Must VS Tank Solo
| Tnak Must | Size | Watch Case | Represent Ref. |
| Small | 16mm | 29.9*22mm | WSTA0042 |
| Large | 19mm | 33.7*22.5mm | WSTA0041 |
| XL | 23mm | 41*31mm | WSTA0040 |
| Tnak Solo | Size | Size | |
| Small | 17mm | 31*24mm | W5200005 |
| Large | 20mm | 34.8*27mm | WSTA0028 |
| XL | 23mm | 40.85*31mm | WSTA0029 |
2. Dial Design: Closer to Historical Prototypes, More Elegant Details
The Must returns to the classic roots of the Tank collection, drawing inspiration from the Tank Louis . This gives it a more vintage overall style, creating a clear contrast with the “simple and straightforward” aesthetic of the Solo:
- Lugs and Case: The Tank Solo has relatively sharp lug lines and a flat case design. In contrast, the Must’s lugs feature a “full and rounded curved finish,” transitioning more naturally with the case. Additionally, the Must’s case adopts a “curved structure,” which reflects soft metallic luster under light and looks more refined visually.
- Dial Craftsmanship: The Tank Solo’s dial is mostly a solid-color flat design, with relatively simple texture. The Must, however, offers differentiated designs by size: Size S and L use “silvered dials,” which have a warm luster like silverware and pair with black Roman numerals for enhanced elegance; Size XL is upgraded to a “guilloché dial with hobnail pattern,” featuring delicate spiral textures on the dial surface. These textures are created through hand engraving, delivering a more layered look and touch than ordinary dials.
- Crown Details: Both models have a spinel-set crown, but the Must’s spinel features a “slimmer and more elongated cut,” creating a visual contrast with the rounded lugs for a more balanced overall proportion. Additionally, the crown of the Must has deeper grooves, providing a clearer tactile feedback when adjusting.
3. Wearing Experience: Upgraded Buckle and Movement for Enhanced Practicality
- Buckle Upgrade: The Tank Solo uses a traditional deployment clasp, which is secure but requires removing links to adjust the strap length. The Must switches to a “pin buckle design,” which is lighter in weight and allows flexible tightness adjustment through multiple holes on the strap. This is particularly convenient for users whose wrist size changes with temperature
- Strap System: The Must’s strap interface features a “miniaturized design,” connecting more tightly with the lugs to prevent the strap from wobbling during wear. Additionally, some models support a “quick-release mechanism” (when paired with a compatible strap), allowing strap replacement without tools—more convenient than the Solo’s fixed interface.
- Movement Battery Life: The Size S and L versions of the Must replace the Solo’s standard quartz movement with a “high-efficiency long-lasting quartz movement,” offering a battery life of up to 8 years. The Size XL version retains an automatic mechanical movement, preserving the enjoyment of owning a mechanical watch.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Tank Solo | Tank Must |
|---|---|---|
| Collection status | Previous generation | Current collection |
| Case shape | Rectangular | Rectangular |
| Small lug width | 17mm | 16mm |
| Large lug width | 20mm | 19mm |
| XL lug width | 23mm | 23mm |
| Case design | More angular | More curved |
| Dial style | Simple design | More varied designs |
| Strap options | Leather / bracelet | Leather / bracelet |
| Quick-release | Reference dependent | Reference dependent |
| Best for | Classic Tank look | Newer Tank design |
II. Tank Must vs. Tank Louis Cartier
| Comparison Dimension | Tank Must | Tank Louis Cartier |
|---|---|---|
| Design Purpose | Adapting the classic Tank design to modern daily wear | Replicating the original 1920s design to restore historical charm |
| Case Material | Mainly stainless steel, with some models featuring gold plating | Mostly precious metals such as 18K gold and platinum |
| Dial Details | Printed/metal applied hour markers, simple and clear | Handcrafted enamel inlays for hour markers, more luxurious texture |
| Price Positioning | Entry-level (approximately RMB 20,000-40,000), higher cost-effectiveness | High-end collector-level (starting from approximately RMB 100,000) |
| Suitable Scenarios | Daily commuting, casual matching | Formal occasions, watch collection |
Cartier Tank WSTA0041
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 33.7mm × 25.5mm
Crown: Set with a synthetic cabochon spinel
Dial:Silvered opaline dial, paired with black Roman numeral hour markers
Clasp: Stainless steel pin buckle
- Material:Calfskin Strap For Cartier
- Seamless Fit: for Cartier.
- Multiple Colors: black | grass green | chartreuse | white | pink | blue| lake blue and more
- Comfortable Itlian Calfskin Leather
IV. Recommendation of Steel Straps: Cartier Tank Must Bracelet and Cartier Tank Solo Bracelet
For models like the Tank Must and Solo, we offer “quick-release stainless steel straps” to solve the problems of limited original strap options and difficult replacement.
- Precise Fit: Interfaces are according to the lug width of different Cartier moadels. No lug grinding is required during installation—just attach the strap directly to achieve a fit consistent with the original, with no looseness or wobbling.
- High-Quality Material: Made of 316L medical-grade stainless steel,does not rust easily when exposed to sweat or rain in daily use. The surface undergoes “vacuum ion plating,” with color options (silver, rose gold, yellow gold) that perfectly match the color of Cartier cases and resist fading even with long-term wear.
- User-Friendly Design: The links feature a “push-button quick-release structure,” allowing length adjustment without tools—easy even for beginners to operate.
- Consistent Style: The strap design inherits Cartier’s “simple and elegant” style, with the link width gradually changing to match the lugs. Visually, it integrates seamlessly with the case, without disrupting the classic proportions of the Tank collection—maintaining the watch’s high-end texture even after replacement.
The Tank Solo has now been officially discontinued, and its “entry-level classic” position has been succeeded by the Tank Must. Compared to the Solo, the Must is closer to the historical essence of the Tank collection in design and better meets the needs of modern life in practicality。 It has become the “first choice for entry-level models” for users who love the Cartier Tank collection. If you are an owner of the old Solo model, you can also refresh your old watch by replacing it with our cartier tank must bracelet.
Video:Steel Bracelet For Cartier Tank Must Tank Solo
Video:How to clean metal watch strap
What Strap Size Does My Tank Need?
The correct replacement strap size depends on the exact Tank Must reference. Lug width is measured between the inside edges of the two lugs.
If you are not sure which strap fits your Cartier watch, our Replacement Straps Guide For Cartier explains the different strap types, sizes and compatibility considerations for Cartier models.
Lug Size Guide For Tank Must VS Tank Solo
| Tank Must | Lug Width |
|---|---|
| Small | 16mm |
| Large | 19mm |
| XL | 23mm |
| Tank Solo | Lug Width |
|---|---|
| Small | 17mm |
| Large | 20mm |
| XL | 23mm |
Cartier Tank Solo has been discontinued and replaced by the Tank Must collection.
Visually, the Cartier Tank Solo and Tank Must share a very similar silhouette, and both deliver timeless elegant aesthetics. Since Cartier stopped producing the Tank Solo line, you can only source Tank Solo watches from the secondary watch market.
What is Cartier Tank SolarBeat?
SolarBeat™ is Cartier’s innovative photovoltaic movement exclusive to select Tank Must models.
Tank Must Watch, Large Model, SolarBeat™ Photovoltaic Movement | Ref. WSTA0059 Steel case, beaded crown set with a synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel, silvered dial, blued-steel sword-shaped hands. It comes with an animal-free black strap and steel ardillon buckle. Case dimensions: 33.7 mm × 25.5 mm, thickness: 6.6 mm. Water-resistant to 3 bar (approx. 30 metres).
Important strap note: Tank Solo and Tank Must use different lug fittings, their straps are NOT interchangeable. Always verify your watch reference before buying replacement watch straps.
Can You Make Quick Release Watch Band For My Cartier Tank Solo, Tank Americaine, Tank Francaise Watch?
Yes, Royalwatchstrap can custom leather watch bands and punch holes to make quick switch system watch band. The Quick release system allows for easy interchangeability of the strap, no tool needed
VI. FAQ
Q:Can the old Solo model be fitted with the new quick-release stainless steel strap?
A:Yes, but you first need to confirm the “lug width” of the old Solo model (i.e., the distance between the two lugs on the case)
Q:You offer custom straps for what cartier models?
A:Currently, we provide custom straps for multiple popular Cartier collections, including but not limited to:
- Tank Collection: Tank Must (all sizes), Tank Solo (all sizes), Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Française;
Custom straps are made with molds tailored to the lug shape and interface structure of each specific model, ensuring a 100% fit.
Q:What types of Cartier watch straps do you offer?
Q: Are all the links made of solid steel?
A:Yes, every single link of this band is fully machined from solid 316L stainless steel, no hollow thin steel links.
Q: Is Tank Must smaller than Tank Solo?
A: In several comparable sizes, the Tank Must has a slightly smaller case than the Tank Solo. For example, the Tank Must Small (Ref. WSTA0042) measures 29.5 × 22 mm with a 16 mm lug width, while the Tank Solo Small is approximately 31 × 24.4 mm with a 17 mm lug width. However, case dimensions vary by reference, so check the exact model before choosing a replacement strap.
Q:How to do Cartier Tank Must strap change?
A:Changing a strap or bracelet on a Cartier Tank Must requires attention to both the lug width and the connection system.
Q: Can Tank Solo use a stainless steel bracelet?
A: Yes, a Tank Solo can be fitted with a stainless steel bracelet when the bracelet is specifically designed for the watch’s case and lug dimensions. Because Tank Solo models use different lug widths depending on size, you should confirm your exact reference before ordering. A properly fitted replacement bracelet should match the case without forcing or modifying the lugs.
Q: Is Cartier Tank Solo discontinued?
A: Yes. The Cartier Tank Solo has been discontinued and replaced in Cartier’s current entry-level Tank lineup by the Tank Must. Cartier’s current collection lists Tank Must models in Small, Large and Extra-Large sizes, while Tank Solo is no longer part of the current collection.
Q: How do I identify my Cartier Tank reference?
A: The easiest way is to check the reference number engraved on your watch or its original documentation. You can then compare the reference with the case size, lug width and design details to identify the exact Tank model. For replacement straps, identifying the reference is especially important because different Tank models can use different lug widths—for example, the Tank Must WSTA0042 uses a 16 mm lug width.
Final Thoughs
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