When you think of Cartier, the firm's longstanding history in jewelry probably comes to mind. But Cartier also have a renowned reputation for making timeless and elegant timepieces.

The Tank Louis is without question the maison's most well-known model, but the story doesn't end there: Beyond the Tank line are numerous models — many produced in very limited quantities — that are some of the most beautiful timepieces ever made.

This particular example, a Tonneau model, dates to circa 1990s and features a 26mm 18k yellow gold case with a wildly cool, curved crystal, a lovely white guilloché Paris-signed dial with printed 'Roman' indices, a matching blued-steel 'sword' handset, and Cartier’s ubiquitous sapphire cabochon crown.

This piece is powered by a hand-wound movement and comes fitted to a signed blue leather strap with a matching, signed 18K yellow gold deployant. As effortlessly comfortable as it is elegant, this piece is appropriate for virtually any wrist.

A Tank is always a winning pick, but choosing something slightly off the beaten path like this Tonneau — with its stunning, curved design — signals a particularly refined level of taste.