Vintage Tissot 18K White Gold Diamond Cocktail Watch with Lapis Blue Dial
Watch (Cocktail Bracelet Style) · White Gold; Likely rhodium-plated to achieve the bright, silvery-white luster characteristic of high-end Swiss jewelry watches.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); Contains 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel for strength and color.
Type
Watch (Cocktail Bracelet Style)
Purity
18K (750 fineness); Contains 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel for strength and color.
Gold Type
White Gold; Likely rhodium-plated to achieve the bright, silvery-white luster characteristic of high-end Swiss jewelry watches.
Weight
35g - 45g (including movement); The integrated mesh-style bracelet and solid gold case provide substantial weight.
Description
An exquisite example of Mid-Century Swiss horology, this ladies' cocktail watch features an 18K white gold oval case framed by a brilliant diamond halo. The striking cobalt lapis-style dial contrasts beautifully with the textured white gold mesh bracelet, which wraps the wrist like a piece of fine jewelry rather than a traditional timepiece.
Key Features
Electric blue dial, diamond-cut bark texture on the bracelet, and a classic oval diamond halo setting.
Color & Finish
Cool bright white with a diamond-cut / bark-textured finish on the integrated bracelet for a shimmering, light-catching effect.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely includes '750' or '18K' on the case back and clasp, the Tissot brand logo on the dial and crown, and Swiss Helvetia assay marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Case: 24mm x 20mm (estimate); Bracelet: 6.5 inches length; tapered width from 10mm to 14mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Surrounded by a halo of approximately 24-30 round brilliant-cut diamonds (estimated total weight 0.50 - 0.75 carats) in a prong setting.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated jewelry fold-over ladder clasp, likely with two or three adjustment notches and a safety chain for security.
Chain & Links
Braided mesh/Milanese style integrated bracelet; fine woven gold wire construction with a seamless transition to the watch head.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished mesh bracelet with seamless integration; high-quality prong settings for diamonds; mechanical or high-grade quartz Swiss movement.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the Tissot logo on the dial, the weight and feel of 18K white gold vs. plated steel, and the precision of the diamond settings.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Manufactured by Tissot, a leading Swiss watchmaker known for high-quality movements and jewelry integration.
Era & Period
Retro / Mid-Century Modern (Late 1960s to 1970s); Characterized by the oval dial, textured gold, and 'disco' era luxury aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1975; Consistent with the design language of high-end ladies' Swiss watches from this specific decade.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of peak 1970s elegance, these watches were designed as functional jewelry for formal social events where traditional watches were considered too casual.
Condition Notes
Very Good; Light surface scratches on the case back; movement appears functional; dial is clean; edges of the mesh bracelet are smooth.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500; Value is driven by the gold melt weight (~$1,800-2,200), the premium for the Tissot brand, and the diamond market value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners due to the watch movement and dial; professional servicing of mechanical movement every 5-7 years.
Similar Items
Omega De Ville 18K Cocktail Watch, Piaget Protocol, or vintage Rolex Cellini models of the same era.
Interesting Facts
During the 1970s, Tissot and Omega were part of the SSIH group and shared many design philosophies and component suppliers for their high-end gold pieces.