18K White Gold Diamond Ellipse Style Women's Dress Watch
Watch (Cocktail/Dress) · White Gold (likely rhodium-plated). The warm yellow tones visible in the scratches indicate a yellow gold alloy base or a base metal alloy underneath a silver-toned plating.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold. Surface shows signs of potential base metal exposure in worn areas, suggesting it may be heavy gold plating or gold-filled over brass.
Type
Watch (Cocktail/Dress)
Purity
18K (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold. Surface shows signs of potential base metal exposure in worn areas, suggesting it may be heavy gold plating or gold-filled over brass.
Gold Type
White Gold (likely rhodium-plated). The warm yellow tones visible in the scratches indicate a yellow gold alloy base or a base metal alloy underneath a silver-toned plating.
Weight
15 to 25 grams (total weight including movement and strap bits). The watch head alone likely contributes 8-12 grams of metal weight.
Description
A feminine dress watch featuring an elongated oval or rectangular case with slightly curved sides. The bezel is accented by a row of small white stones, and the lugs are uniquely punctuated by two blue cabochons. The piece is finished in a white-toned metal that shows significant 'brassing,' suggesting it is a gold-plated fashion piece rather than solid gold.
Key Features
Characteristic blue cabochon lug ends, stone-set bezel, and polished elongated case profile.
Color & Finish
Cool silver-white tone with high-polish finish. Significant surface scratches and abrasions. Areas of wear show a 'brassing' or gold-tone oxidation common in plated items.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in current view; typically located on the case-back or between lugs. If genuine 18K, a '750' or a Swiss Helvetia head would be expected.
Dimensions Estimate
Case width approx 22-25mm; Thickness approx 7mm; Petite women's sizing.
Gemstones & Inlays
Small round-cut stones (diamonds or crystals) set on the bezel. Two blue cabochon stones (likely synthetic spinel or sapphire) set into the lug terminals.
Clasp & Closure
Not visible, but the strap suggests a buckle or tang-style clasp system.
Chain & Links
Integrated lug system for a leather or synthetic strap; the lugs are fixed and decorated with blue cabochons.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast case with machine-set stones. Lack of crispness in the metal edges suggests a mid-tier manufacturing process.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: The prominent yellowish/carmel-colored wear-through on the side of the case is a classic indicator of gold-plated base metal (brass or bronze) rather than solid white gold. Solid 18K white gold would remain silver-toned (though slightly yellowish) throughout.
Origin & Maker
Unbranded in view. Design language mimics high-end Swiss luxury houses but the visible wear patterns suggest a fashion-tier or mid-market imitation.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Late 20th Century. Stylistically influenced by the Patek Philippe Ellipse or Cartier Tank Américaine designs.
Age Estimate
Likely 1990s to early 2010s production.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the formal dress watch aesthetic of the late 20th century where watches transitioned from purely functional tools to jewelry-first accessories.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss on the left side of the case where a copper-colored base metal is visible. Heavy micro-scratching throughout. The stones appear cloudy.
Value Estimate
Low resale value ($20-$100) as a fashion accessory. If determined to be solid 18K gold, value would be $400-$600 in scrap, but visible wear-through makes solid gold status highly unlikely.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive cleaners as they will further remove the plating. Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid moisture as the seal and base metal may corrode.
Similar Items
Cartier Baignoire (Solid Gold), Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse (Solid Gold), Baume & Mercier fashion watches.
Interesting Facts
The use of blue cabochons in watch design was popularized by Cartier in their 'Crown' designs, often signaling luxury and royal associations.