It was based, apparently, on the shape of an early military tank as viewed from above. I think that is the official version.exHowfener wrote: ↑Wed Jan 11, 2023 7:44 pm I may be lacking in imagination, but does a Cartier "Tank" really look like Renault FT 17, or was it just cashing in on the popularity of what was seen as exciting new technology?
Interestingly, the extensions of the case to hold the strap are known chez Cartier as brancards, the French word for a stretcher. Again, the visual resemblance is understandable.
The standard French word for lugs is “cornes” (horns).
I think it might be to do with the way that light reflects off the polished and bevelled edges.