Swiss 0.800 Silver Case with Gold Vermeil/Wash Interior and Grouse Hallmark
Watch Case or Accessory Box component (typically a Pocket Watch Hunter or Open-face case) · Yellow Gold plating (Vermeil) over a silver base. The alloy shown is primarily silver, showing the characteristic cool grey patina of aged silver where the wash has worn away.
Purity: Non-solid (Vermeil/Gold Wash); Base is 80% fine silver (0.800). The gold layer is a thin decorative wash or 'vermeil', usually 18K to 24K in appearance but negligible in gold weight percentage.
Type
Watch Case or Accessory Box component (typically a Pocket Watch Hunter or Open-face case)
Purity
Non-solid (Vermeil/Gold Wash); Base is 80% fine silver (0.800). The gold layer is a thin decorative wash or 'vermeil', usually 18K to 24K in appearance but negligible in gold weight percentage.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating (Vermeil) over a silver base. The alloy shown is primarily silver, showing the characteristic cool grey patina of aged silver where the wash has worn away.
Weight
Estimated 20-45 grams depending on whether this is the dust cover (cuvette) or the main outer case transition.
Description
This is the interior case back or 'cuvette' of a Swiss-made pocket watch. Crafted from 80% continental silver, it features a traditional 'Gold Wash' interior meant to prevent the silver from tarnishing against the watch movement. The centerpiece is a crisp Swiss Woodcock hallmark, a symbol of quality assurance for silver above the 800 fineness grade.
Key Features
Distinctive Swiss Grouse (Woodcock) mark, '0,800' fineness stamp, and the Swiss Cross symbol. The characteristic bi-metal appearance (silver exterior, gold-toned interior) is the hallmark of Swiss watchmaking excellence of the era.
Color & Finish
Dull frosted silver exterior with a pale straw-yellow gold wash interior. Features a satin, aged patina with micro-scratches consistent with long-term use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Swiss 'Grouse' (Woodcock) hallmark above the purity stamp denotes 0.800 silver (used 1880-1933). The '0,800' is in a rectangular shield. Below is the Swiss cross (+) suggesting Swiss manufacture.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 45mm to 52mm diameter, standard for a gentleman's size 12 to 16 pocket watch case.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The focus is purely on the ornamental metalwork and required legal hallmarking.
Clasp & Closure
Friction fit or hinged (typical for watch cuvettes). The edge shows a slight bevel for seating into a main case body.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; this is a fixed circular metal component.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-stamped hallmarks. The surface shows evidence of engine turning or high-grade lathe finishing prior to the application of the gold wash.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Grouse mark above the fineness shield; distinct '0,800' font style; presence of the Swiss cross; metal oxidation color is consistent with low-grade continental silver.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland. The hallmarks are official Swiss state marks used for exported and domestic silver plate and silver items.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Early Edwardian (c. 1882–1934). The hallmarks specifically align with the Swiss Precious Metals Control Act of 1880.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890–1915 based on the style of the '0,800' numerals and the use of the woodcock (grouse) mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the Swiss watchmaking export boom when Switzerland standardized its hallmarking to dominate the global horological market.
Condition Notes
Very Good for its age. The hallmarks are clear and not over-polished. There is a light 'frosting' of oxidation on the silver and minor thinning of the gold wash near the edges.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued as a collectible watch part or for silver melt. Melt value is low (~$15-$30), but as a complete vintage watch case, it may carry a premium of $50-$100 to a restorer.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive polishes which will strip the thin gold wash. Use a soft silver cloth only on the silver areas. Keep in a dry, low-humidity environment to prevent tarnish.
Similar Items
Sterling silver (0.925) cases marked with a 'Duck' (Swiss) or Lion Passant (British); Nickel-silver (Leonidas/Argentan) cases which have no precious metal hallmarks.
Interesting Facts
The 'Grouse' mark was specifically used for silver between .800 and .925 fineness. Items with this mark were often destined for the German market, where 800 silver was the legal standard.