Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Cocktail Watch by Longines with Integrated Wheat Link Bracelet
Watch (Cocktail) · Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with silver and copper to create a traditional warm European tone.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) meaning 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals, typically used in high-end European horology for its balance of luster and durability.
Type
Watch (Cocktail)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) meaning 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals, typically used in high-end European horology for its balance of luster and durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with silver and copper to create a traditional warm European tone.
Weight
Total item weight approximately 25 to 35 grams, including the mechanical movement. Net gold weight estimated at 18 to 22 grams.
Description
An elegant example of mid-century Swiss horology, this 18K gold Longines cocktail watch features a manual-wind movement encased in a circular gold housing. The standout feature is the masterfully integrated wheat-style bracelet that blends jewelry and timekeeping into a singular gold ornament.
Key Features
Integrated bracelet design, signed Longines crown, 18K gold hallmark on external case back, high-precision manual-wind mechanical caliber.
Color & Finish
Rich warm yellow gold with a high-polish finish on the case back and a textured, satin-like finish on the woven bracelet links to minimize visible scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved serial number '11487' and '423' on case back; visible small hallmark (likely Helvetic woman's head for Swiss 18K) above the serial number; Longines winged hourglass logo on the winding crown.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter: 14mm-16mm; Bracelet width: 4mm-5mm; Total length: 6.5 to 7.0 inches. Petite ladies fitting.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on the reverse; likely a minimalist dial or small diamond accents on the bezel (obscured from this angle).
Clasp & Closure
Likely a jewelry-style folding ladder clasp with a safety catch to maintain the seamless look of the integrated bracelet.
Chain & Links
Integrated Wheat (Spiga) link construction; V-shaped interlocking links designed for high flexibility and a fabric-like drape on the wrist.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior Swiss construction; the bracelet is hand-assembled with precision soldering at the lugs to ensure a seamless transition between watch and band.
Authentication Indicators
Sharp, deep serial number engravings; authentic Longines logo on crown; hallmark shape matches 18K Swiss standards; consistent color between case and bracelet.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; movement and case by Longines, a prestigious Swiss watchmaker established in 1832.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s - 1960s). This period favored small secret watches and elegant integrated textured gold bands.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1965 based on the case serial number style and the popularity of the ultra-thin cocktail watch aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
Cocktail watches represented post-war prosperity and femininity, serving as high-society evening wear where traditional 'utilitarian' watches were considered inappropriate.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Minor surface micro-scratches on case back. The bracelet links appear tight without stretching. One small dent near the winding crown.
Value Estimate
Estimated at $1,200 - $1,800. Value is derived primarily from the 18K gold melt value plus a 40-60% premium for the Longines brand and vintage design.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft cloth after wear to remove skin oils; avoid ultrasonic cleaning for watches as it can damage the movement; professional movement servicing recommended every 5-7 years.
Similar Items
Vintage 18K Omega Ladymatic, Rolex Orchid, or Patek Philippe cocktail watches with integrated bark-finish bracelets.
Interesting Facts
Longines supplied timing equipment for the first modern Olympics in 1896 and was the brand used by Amelia Earhart during her solo Atlantic flight.