The Cartier Tank

One of the coolest (in my opinion) and arguably well designed watches with fascinating history is the Cartier Tank, here's why:
Source: Cartier 

History

• Was designed by Louis Cartier in 1917 having been inspired by new French-made Renault tanks which he saw used on the Western Front during his time as a soldier in World War 1
• One of the very first watches to take on a rectangular shape, compared to the more commonly seen circular timepieces of the time. The prominent "bracards" (vertical bars) are inspired by the tank treads. 
• Given as a gift to General John Pershing in 1918 as a token of thanks for his comandeering of the American Expeditionary Force in Europe during World War 1. 

Design

• Design is inspired by the Art Deco movement giving it a classic stylish and elegant appearance. You can tell through the decision to use roman numerals as their indices as well as the rail-road chapter dial. 
• Sapphire cabochon (gem-stone cap found on the crown) along with burnt-blue hour and minute hands gives the watch a burst of refined colour, yet maintaining its understated look
• Note that the Roman numeral for the 4th hour is not the commonly accepted "IV" but instead a "IIII". What would be the purpose of this, you may ask. Having had inspiration from Art Deco works which are symmetrical and geometric - its goal is just that. Employing a "IIII" works to balance out the denser region of "VIII" found on the left side of the watch face.
• Cartier logo is hidden in the 10th hour marker - a fun Easter egg. I love watches that look simple at the get-go but once you pay greater attention, you realise that there remains more to discover. 

Overall, a perfectly sized unisex watch for my wrist with a design aesthetic that is refreshingly unique yet thoughtful.  Would love to have this piece in my collection in the future and maybe you would too!