Vintage 18K Yellow Gold LIP Cocktail Watch with Textured Link Bracelet
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry Watch) · Yellow Gold, classic mid-century warm hue consistent with European 18K alloys.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold alloyed with 25% other metals for durability.
Type
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry Watch)
Purity
18K (750 fineness), representing 75% pure gold alloyed with 25% other metals for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, classic mid-century warm hue consistent with European 18K alloys.
Weight
Estimated total gold weight of 18-22 grams (excluding movement and crystal).
Description
An elegant example of French mid-century horological jewelry. This LIP cocktail watch features a sophisticated 18K yellow gold case with a matching textured bracelet. The interplay of linear and starburst engravings creates a shimmering effect under light, while the textured dial reflects the 'Golden Age' of French industrial design.
Key Features
Signature LIP branding, unique 'star-and-stripe' geometric engraving, and integrated jewelry bracelet design.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a bi-textured finish featuring diamond-cut starburst patterns on outer links and linear brushed satin on inner links.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Eagle's head hallmark likely present on case back or clasp (French 18K indicator); '750' and 'LIP' branding on dial and movement.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approx 18-20mm; bracelet width approx 8-10mm; total length approx 6.5-7 inches.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; decorative focus is on the geometric diamond-cut engraving and textured dial pattern.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over jewelry clasp with high-security safety hinge, likely integrated into the textured link design.
Chain & Links
Articulated rectangular links; hand-finished with engine-turned texture and soldered hinge pins for flexibility.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision hand-engraving on machine-cast links; dial shows basketweave texturing; soldered lug attachments.
Authentication Indicators
French Eagle's head hallmark; consistent wear patterns; high-quality engraving depth; LIP dial typography fits 1960s production.
Origin & Maker
LIP (Besançon, France); a historically significant French watchmaking firm known for precision and design.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s to 1960s); evidenced by the geometric textures and petite 'cocktail' watch aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war transition of watches from purely functional tools to luxury jewelry status symbols for women.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible oxidation/tarnish on lugs and bracelet joints; crystal shows surface scratches; movement functionality unknown.
Value Estimate
$1,200 - $1,800 based on gold weight (melt value ~ $900) plus brand and collectible premium.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaning due to watch movement; use a soft gold-polishing cloth; professional movement servicing every 5 years.
Similar Items
Vintage Cartier Baignoire, 1960s Omega Ladymatic, or textured gold cocktail watches by Zenith or Longines.
Interesting Facts
LIP was the first French company to produce an electric watch and once gifted a timepiece to Winston Churchill.