18K White Gold Vintage Style Diamond and Sapphire Trimmed Wristwatch
Watch (Jewelry/Dress Watch) · White Gold, likely rhodium-plated. Shows a characteristic cool metallic luster with visible scratches revealing a warmer metal beneath.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) base meta; 75.0% pure gold. Analysis of wear suggests potential plating or thick white gold alloy over a warm base.
Type
Watch (Jewelry/Dress Watch)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) base meta; 75.0% pure gold. Analysis of wear suggests potential plating or thick white gold alloy over a warm base.
Gold Type
White Gold, likely rhodium-plated. Shows a characteristic cool metallic luster with visible scratches revealing a warmer metal beneath.
Weight
12-18 grams (case and movement included). Small profile suggests a lighter luxury build.
Description
An elegant, feminine dress watch featuring an elongated white gold case. The bezel is delicately accented with small diamonds, complemented by vibrant blue cabochon accents at the strap attachment points.
Key Features
Tapered boat-shaped case, blue cabochon lug tips, and grain-set diamond bezel trim.
Color & Finish
High polish finish with significant surface abrasions. Cool silvery-white tone consistent with rhodium finishing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in profile; typically located on the case back or the interior of the lugs. Expected marks: 750 or 18K.
Dimensions Estimate
Case length approximately 25-28mm; width approximately 15mm; tapered jewelry profile.
Gemstones & Inlays
Melee diamonds pavé-set on the bezel (likely single or full cut, approx. 0.01ct each); two blue sapphire cabochons or synthetic blue spinel caps on the lug pins.
Clasp & Closure
Attached to a leather strap, likely utilizing a tang buckle or a small fold-over deployment clasp in matching gold.
Chain & Links
N/A; watch utilizes a thin leather strap with specialized end-piece attachments.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast case with hand-set melee diamonds. Precision finishing on the lugs and integrated pin system for the cabochon accents.
Authentication Indicators
Diamond setting uniformity is consistent with luxury production; however, visible brassing/yellowing in scratches suggests a need for an acid or XRF test to confirm solid gold vs. heavy plating.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, possibly Swiss or Italian fashion house or specialized boutique jeweler.
Era & Period
Modern Vintage or Retro-Contemporary (likely 1990s - early 2000s) influenced by Art Deco aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2005 based on the style of the gem-capped lugs and diamond setting style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'jewelry watch' era where timepieces served as functional bracelets for formal evening wear and high-society events.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant surface scratching on the metal case walls and visible wear to the leather strap. Crystal appears intact but dusty. Grade: Fair/Good.
Value Estimate
Melt value approximately $400-$600; Secondary market/Resale value approximately $1,200-$1,800 depending on brand and movement condition.
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional rhodium replating to restore mirror finish. Do not submerge; clean with a soft microfiber cloth and avoid perfume contact with the gems.
Similar Items
Cartier Baignoire, Piaget Vintage Gem-set watches, or Longines DolceVita variations.
Interesting Facts
The use of blue stones in the lugs (vif) is a design hallmark popularized by luxury brands like Cartier, often used to signify premium movements or precious metal cases.