Vintage 14K Yellow Gold-Filled Art Deco Ladies Cocktail Watch
Watch · Yellow Gold with warm traditional vintage hue, composed of a gold alloy layer mechanically bonded to a base metal core
Purity: Gold-Filled (Estimated 1/10 14K or Rolled Gold Plate, approximately 5% actual gold weight by mass over a base metal core)
Type
Watch
Purity
Gold-Filled (Estimated 1/10 14K or Rolled Gold Plate, approximately 5% actual gold weight by mass over a base metal core)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with warm traditional vintage hue, composed of a gold alloy layer mechanically bonded to a base metal core
Weight
Estimated total weight 10-15 grams including movement, crystal, and fabric cord; precious metal content is minimal
Description
An exquisite vintage ladies cocktail wristwatch featuring a square white dial with clear Arabic numerals, accented by ornate, sculpted yellow gold-filled decorative lugs in a classic Art Deco aesthetic. The mechanical 15-jewel movement is housed in a compact, elegant case paired with a contrasting fabric cord strap, reflecting the delicate jewelry-watch hybridization popular in mid-century fashion.
Key Features
Square watch case geometry, ornate sculpted top and bottom decorative lugs, 15-jewel mechanical movement indication on the dial, and integrated fabric strap attachments
Color & Finish
Warm vintage yellow gold tone with a high polish finish on the case bezel and decorative articulated lugs, showing some minor surface wear and minor brassing
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct hallmarks likely located on the interior case back or outer case rim, typical of mid-century gold-filled watch cases indicating maker and metal content standard
Dimensions Estimate
Case width approximately 15mm excluding crown, case length approximately 25mm including decorative lugs, standard petite vintage ladies sizing
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; dial features painted Arabic numerals, stylized minute track, and text including '15 RUBIS'
Clasp & Closure
Ribbon or cord strap with adjustable hardware, typical of vintage cocktail watch designs from the mid-20th century
Chain & Links
Fabric cord strap with gold-filled attachment loops integrated into the ornate hinged decorative watch lugs
Craftsmanship Details
Mechanical hand-wound movement with 15 jewels, stamped and formed gold-filled case construction, delicate soldered lug architecture, and hand-painted dial details
Authentication Indicators
Dial bears '15 RUBIS' marking denoting jewel count; case construction features typical rolled gold or gold-filled fabrication marks common to vintage timepiece manufacturing
Origin & Maker
Likely Swiss movement housed in an American or Swiss gold-filled watch case, common manufacturing practice during the mid-20th century vintage watch era
Era & Period
Art Deco to Retro Period (circa 1930s-1940s), indicated by the geometric square case design, ornate floral/scroll lug motifs, and vintage dial typography
Age Estimate
Circa 1930s to 1950s based on the case architecture, dial design, and mechanical 15-jewel movement specification
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-Depression and wartime era transition where luxury was expressed through clever styling and accessible materials like gold-filled metals rather than solid precious metals
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. The acrylic crystal shows light surface scratches consistent with age. The case retains much of its gold finish with minor edge wear. Mechanical functionality is untested.
Value Estimate
Collector and decorative value ranges from $50 to $150 depending on working mechanical condition and brand pedigree, as melt value is negligible due to gold-filled construction
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid all contact with water, moisture, and harsh chemical cleaners due to the vintage nature of the case and fabric strap. Professional watchmaker servicing recommended for the mechanical movement.
Similar Items
Vintage Bulova, Hamilton, Elgin, and Gruen ladies cocktail watches from the 1930s and 1940s featuring gold-filled cases and cord bands
Interesting Facts
During the Art Deco and Retro eras, ladies watches were viewed primarily as pieces of fine jewelry rather than purely functional timepieces, often featuring hidden dials or elaborate gemstone and precious metal mountings