Cartier C Décor 18K Yellow Gold-Plated Rimless Eyeglasses
Luxury Eyewear / Frames · Yellow Gold finish with high-gloss luster
Purity: 18K Gold Plated (Heavy Electroplate/Flash Gold). This is not solid gold; it is a base metal (typically Monel or Titanium) coated with a layer of 18K gold (75% purity) for luster.
Type
Luxury Eyewear / Frames
Purity
18K Gold Plated (Heavy Electroplate/Flash Gold). This is not solid gold; it is a base metal (typically Monel or Titanium) coated with a layer of 18K gold (75% purity) for luster.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish with high-gloss luster
Weight
The total frame weight typically ranges between 20g to 30g, though the actual gold content is a negligible fraction of the weight due to plating.
Description
An iconic example of Cartier’s eyewear expertise, these rimless glasses feature the celebrated 'C Décor' hinges. The minimalist lens design is offset by the bold, opulent gold-plated hardware that exalts the Cartier legacy of fine jewelry.
Key Features
The signature 'C' monogram hinge hardware; rimless bridge assembly; burgundy/tortoise arm tips; custom branded nose pads.
Color & Finish
Rich buttery yellow gold color with a high-polished mirror finish on the 'C' décor hardware and bridge pieces.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect Cartier logo, 'Made in France', a unique serial number on the temple interior, and 'Cartier' engraved on the bridge or nose pads.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard frame width approx 135mm-140mm; temple length 135mm-145mm; lens dimensions variable (rimless style).
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones visible; features translucent acetate or composite temple tips in a dark tortoiseshell/burgundy hue.
Clasp & Closure
Precision spring-loaded or fixed precision-screw hinges for temple movement.
Chain & Links
N/A; Frame construction consists of a central bridge, rimless lens mounts, and straight-arm temples.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional precision in the hinge movement; hand-polished electroplating; ergonomic balance despite the weight of the metal hardware.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'C' logo, crispness of the bridge engraving, quality of the red presentation case, and the presence of a unique serial number on the interior arm.
Origin & Maker
Cartier, France. Produced by Cartier Lunettes (formerly in Joinville-le-Pont).
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern Classic - The C Décor line was popularized in the late 1990s and 2000s.
Age Estimate
Likely early 2010s to present day, based on the red Saffiano-style leather case branding.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Old Money' aesthetic and corporate power-dressing; widely viewed as a symbol of high-tier success in the 21st century.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. No obvious plating wear or 'brassing'. Lenses appear custom-cut. Case is in pristine condition.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value ranges from $500 to $900 USD depending on lens prescription and plating condition. Value is in the brand/design, not the gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with microfiber cloths and specialized lens cleaner; avoid ultrasonic cleaning for the gold-plated parts to prevent micro-pitting; store in the rigid case provided.
Similar Items
Cartier Panthère Eyewear (features panther head hardware), Fred Force 10 Lunettes, or vintage Maybach luxury frames.
Interesting Facts
Cartier rimless frames, particularly the C Décor and 'Buffs' (horn) versions, have reached legendary status in hip-hop culture and luxury fashion circles.