Vintage Cartier Louis Cartier Vendôme Gold-Plated Glasses
Eyewear / Luxury Spectacles · Yellow Gold finish with trademark Cartier Trinity (Three-Tone) accents on the bridge and hinges
Purity: 22K Gold Electroplated (Heavy Gold Plate over Monel or Nickel)
Type
Eyewear / Luxury Spectacles
Purity
22K Gold Electroplated (Heavy Gold Plate over Monel or Nickel)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish with trademark Cartier Trinity (Three-Tone) accents on the bridge and hinges
Weight
25-30 grams total weight (including lenses and acetate ear tips)
Description
A masterpiece of heritage eyewear, these vintage Cartier Vendôme frames represent the pinnacle of 1980s panache. Featuring the iconic aviator-style teardrop lens shape and the 'Trinity' design motifs, these frames served as a symbol of status and refined taste. The item is paired with the original Cartier burgundy leather pouch with gold-corner protectors.
Key Features
Double bridge design, Trinity-style ring accents at the hinges, smooth 'C' decor end pieces, and the signature Cartier serial number which ensures exclusivity.
Color & Finish
High-polish rich yellow gold finish with satin-brushed accents on the Trinity bridge detail; burgundy acetate temple tips
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cartier logo on bridge; 'Cartier Paris' inside the right temple; frame size (e.g., 52-20) and individual serial number on the bridge or temple
Dimensions Estimate
Lens width: ~52mm, Bridge: ~18-20mm, Temple length: ~135mm
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features the signature Trinity ring inlay (Yellow, White, and Rose gold tones) on the bridge and temple hinges
Clasp & Closure
Precision spring-tension hinges with integrated decorative 'C' decor screws at the end pieces
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features solid metal temples and a double-bridge reinforced top bar
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished in France; features multi-part construction where decorative elements are applied to the base frame rather than cast as one piece, ensuring sharp definition.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the serial number (typically hand-stamped), quality of the 'C' decor screws (should be flush), and the unique deep-red burgundy tint of the authentic ear tips. Counterfeits often lack the clean engraving depth seen here.
Origin & Maker
Made in France by Cartier Lunettes
Era & Period
1980s-1990s 'Neo-Classical' Luxury Era
Age Estimate
Circa 1983-1995 production period
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of 'Jet Set' luxury culture, where everyday functional items like spectacles were elevated to the status of fine jewelry by the 'Jeweler of Kings'.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface micro-scratches consistent with age; gold plating appears intact without 'brassing'; original lenses may have been replaced with prescription or demo lenses; leather pouch shows light patina.
Value Estimate
Resale value $800 - $1,500 USD depending on serial number rarity and condition; primarily valued as a collectible brand asset rather than gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with microfiber cloths and lens-safe solution; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may loosen the gold plating over time; professional tightening of temple screws recommended annually.
Similar Items
Cartier Santos de Cartier frames (feature visible screw heads), Cartier Panthère frames (feature feline motifs), and vintage Fred Force 10 eyewear.
Interesting Facts
The 'Vendôme' model was famously worn by celebrities and fashion icons throughout the 80s, becoming one of the most counterfeited and sought-after luxury eyewear designs in history.