Vintage 18K White Gold Integral Bracelet Ladies' Watch
Watch / Jewelry Watch · White Gold; A nickel or palladium alloy, likely rhodium-plated for a bright silver finish.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); Contains 75.0% pure gold and 25.0% alloy metals.
Type
Watch / Jewelry Watch
Purity
18K (750 fineness); Contains 75.0% pure gold and 25.0% alloy metals.
Gold Type
White Gold; A nickel or palladium alloy, likely rhodium-plated for a bright silver finish.
Weight
35 - 50 grams total weight including movement; Gold content approx. 25-35 grams.
Description
An exquisite example of Mid-Century French horology, this 18K white gold ladies' watch features a seamless transition between the oval case and its intricately woven mesh bracelet. The reverse exhibits classic French hallmarking, signifying top-tier craftsmanship and purity.
Key Features
Hand-woven 'Tissu' gold mesh strap, integrated case design, and official French state-guaranteed 18K hallmarks.
Color & Finish
Cool bright silver-white; Satin-brushed case back with a high-luster woven mesh finish on the strap.
Hallmarks & Stamps
French 'Tête d'Aigle' (Eagle's Head) hallmark for 18K gold and a lozenge-shaped maker's mark on the case back.
Dimensions Estimate
Case: 18mm x 22mm (Oval); Bracelet width: 12mm tapering; Length: Standard 6.5-7 inches.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on the reverse; likely a minimalist dial or subtle diamond bezel on the obverse.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over jewelry clasp (not fully visible), typical for integrated bark or mesh bracelets of this era.
Chain & Links
Milanese mesh or 'Tissu' style woven links; semi-rigid integrated construction with excellent flexibility.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled hand-finishing on the mesh links; precision-fit case back with vertically brushed finish.
Authentication Indicators
Clear French 'Tête d'Aigle' stamp, sharp lozenge maker's mark, and weight-appropriate density for 18K gold.
Origin & Maker
French Origin (indicated by Eagle's Head hallmark); Maker's mark lozenge suggest a high-end Parisian workshop.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950-1970); characterized by textured gold and integrated cocktail watch designs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s; based on the mesh strap texture and the specific French hallmark application.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war luxury boom in Europe where cocktail attire and high-fashion gold accessories were social essentials.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the mesh shows no visible kinks, and the hallmarks remain crisp and legible. Minor surface micro-scratches on case back.
Value Estimate
Melt value approx. $1,400 - $1,800; Retail/Collector value $2,500 - $4,500 depending on movement brand and dial condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and mild soap to reach mesh gaps; avoid ultrasonic cleaning if the movement is mechanical.
Similar Items
Omega or Rolex Cellini vintage cocktail watches; often found in yellow gold, making white gold examples rarer and more sought after.
Interesting Facts
The 1960s were the golden age for 'Jewelry Watches' where the bracelet was considered as important as the timekeeping movement.