Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Tonneau Lady's Cocktail Watch
Watch (Cocktail, Dress) · Yellow Gold (rich warm traditional tone)
Purity: 18K (750/1000 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold content with silver/copper alloys
Type
Watch (Cocktail, Dress)
Purity
18K (750/1000 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold content with silver/copper alloys
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (rich warm traditional tone)
Weight
Case weight approximately 8-12 grams (excluding movement and strap)
Description
A refined mid-century lady's cocktail watch featuring a 18K solid gold tonneau-shaped case. Elegant and minimalist, this timepiece represents the transition from Art Deco geometric forms to the softer curves of 1950s luxury jewelry.
Key Features
Tonneau (barrel) shaped case, fixed horizontal bar lugs, knurled manual-wind crown, and stamped serial numbering
Color & Finish
Polished yellow gold with natural surface patina and fine scratches consistent with age
Hallmarks & Stamps
Serial number '152474' visible at bottom case edge; eagle head or Helvetia hallmark indicated by faint indentation center-left
Dimensions Estimate
Case dimensions roughly 15mm x 22mm; fits under 'petite' or 'cocktail' size category
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on the case back; likely contains synthetic rubies within the movement mechanism internally
Clasp & Closure
Attached to a double-cord black strap with sliding gold-toned adjustable slider/stay and unidentified end closure
Chain & Links
Non-metal band; features a dual textile or leather cord construction through fixed gold lugs
Craftsmanship Details
Friction-fit case back; high-precision milling of solid gold ingot; hand-finished edges around the crown recess
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of serial number engraving, deep color hue characteristic of 18K high-gold content, and precise fitting of the case back
Origin & Maker
Likely Swiss or French origin; style is characteristic of Omega, Longines, or Tissot from the post-war era
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (circa 1940s-1950s) based on the tonneau shape and cord band style
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955 based on case serial depth and lug geometry
Cultural Significance
A symbol of feminine sophistication in the mid-20th century, where watches were sold as functional jewelry for formal evening wear
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; visible surface marring and 'micro-scratches' on the high-polish case back; movement functionality unverified
Value Estimate
Resale value $400-$850 USD based on gold melt weight plus vintage brand premium and movement condition
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and magnetic fields; use a dry microfiber cloth; periodic professional servicing of mechanical movement required
Similar Items
Bulova 14K cocktail watches (typically thinner gold), vintage Cartier Tank (different lug style), or 1950s Hamilton cord watches
Interesting Facts
The serial number 152474 allows for potential archival lookup if the manufacturer brand is identified inside the case