Authentic Rolex 18K White Gold President Bracelet Clasp Component
Watch Clasp / Bracelet Component · 18K White Gold (likely unplated or showing wear to the rhodium plating)
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Watch Clasp / Bracelet Component
Purity
18K (750 fineness), consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
18K White Gold (likely unplated or showing wear to the rhodium plating)
Weight
Estimated 8 to 12 grams for the depicted clasp assembly section alone.
Description
Inner folding blade of a luxury Rolex President bracelet. This component facilitates the hidden clasp mechanism, featuring deep, high-precision Swiss hallmarks and brand identifiers.
Key Features
Helvetia assay mark, '8385' reference number, and the distinctive 18K purity marks specific to Rolex's high-purity gold components.
Color & Finish
Cool grey-white tone with a brushed/satin finish; visible oxidation and accumulation of dirt/skin oils in recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'ROLEX' with Coronet, '750' in cartouche, 'GENEVE', 'SWISS MADE', '18K', '8385' model number, and the Helvetia (head of a woman) Swiss assay mark.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 16mm to 20mm width depending on the specific watch model (likely for a Day-Date or Lady-Datejust).
Gemstones & Inlays
None present on this specific clasp component.
Clasp & Closure
Concealed folding Crownclasp (internal mechanism shown), highly secure and iconic to the Rolex President line.
Chain & Links
D-shaped three-piece semi-circular links (President style), appearing solid and high-density.
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision milling and stamping; the hinges are tightly toleranced with high-quality pivot pins indicative of Swiss horological standards.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Helvetia mark and the font weight of the engravings are consistent with genuine Rolex production. The crispness of the '750' cartouche is a positive indicator.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland, manufactured by Rolex SA, Geneva.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th Century to present), based on the crispness of the laser/CNC engraving and hallmark style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2015 based on the style of the '750' cartouche and the specific model stamping.
Cultural Significance
The President bracelet is synonymous with power and status, originally designed for the Rolex Day-Date and gifted to world leaders.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair; significant surface grime and organic buildup 'gunk' visible around the hinges. Minor surface scratches present. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
Component-only value: $800 - $1,200 as a replacement part; Melt value: ~$600-$700 depending on current gold spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Requires ultrasonic cleaning and professional steam cleaning to remove buildup. White gold may eventually require rhodium replating to restore brightness.
Similar Items
Rolex Jubilee or Oyster clasps in 18K gold; aftermarket 'Italian' 18K bracelets (which lack precise Swiss assay marks).
Interesting Facts
Rolex operates its own in-house foundry to create specific gold alloys like Everose and their proprietary white gold to ensure color consistency and durability.