Vintage Mendys 18K Yellow Gold Barker Case Bracelet Watch
Watch (Integrated Bracelet Jewelry Watch) · Yellow Gold (Classic warm tone with rich saturation).
Purity: 18K / 750 (75.0% pure gold). Significant for high-end European vintage jewelry watches.
Type
Watch (Integrated Bracelet Jewelry Watch)
Purity
18K / 750 (75.0% pure gold). Significant for high-end European vintage jewelry watches.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic warm tone with rich saturation).
Weight
35 - 45 grams (Total weight including movement). Likely 25-30g of net gold.
Description
An elegant example of 1970s cocktail jewelry, this Mendys timepiece features a seamless transition between the watch head and the tapered gold bracelet. The entire surface is treated with a hand-finished bark texture that captures light from all angles, masking minor surface scratches and providing a luxurious, organic feel typical of mid-century Swiss craftsmanship.
Key Features
Integrated 'Bark' finish; 17-jewel Swiss mechanical movement; Incabloc shock protection; tonneau-shaped silver dial.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a deep textured 'bark' or florentine finish on the case and integral bracelet.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'750' purity mark likely on the case back or clasp. Dial marked 'MENDYS', '17 RUBIS', 'INCABLOC', 'SWISS MADE'.
Dimensions Estimate
Case: 18mm x 22mm; Bracelet width: 14mm tapering to clasp; standard ladies length (approx. 6.5-7 inches).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on exterior. The movement contains 17 functional synthetic rubies for friction reduction.
Clasp & Closure
Likely a fold-over jewelry clasp with a safety catch, integrated into the gold mesh/bark bracelet.
Chain & Links
Integrated mesh-style bracelet with a continuous bark texture transition from the watch case.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-textured case finishing; precision Swiss mechanical movement; seamless soldering at the case-to-bracelet junction.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep yellow hue of 18K; crispness of 'Swiss Made' text; weight-to-volume ratio consistent with solid gold construction.
Origin & Maker
Swiss Made movement; Mendys is a vintage Swiss brand often utilizing French-made gold cases for the European market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / 1970s Bold Gold era. Defined by heavy textures and integrated case-strap designs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1975 based on the dial typography, Incabloc shock protection, and organic textured gold style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Cocktail Watch' era where timepieces served as high-fashion jewelry pieces rather than just utilitarian tools.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The gold texture remains crisp. The acrylic crystal shows minor scuffs. Crown appears original.
Value Estimate
Melt value + 20-40% premium. Estimated $1,800 - $2,500 based on gold weight and collectible vintage appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water for the gold; avoid water immersion as vintage seals are likely degraded; professional mechanical service every 5 years.
Similar Items
Vintage Omega De Ville integrated bracelet watches; Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse; Piaget textured gold watches.
Interesting Facts
The 'bark' finish was popularized by high-end houses like Rolex and Patek Philippe in the 1970s to hide scratches better than high-polished surfaces.