18K Yellow Gold French Vintage Ladies Watch
Watch (Vintage Cocktail Watch) · Yellow Gold; a rich, high-karat warmth typical of mid-20th century French alloys.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold. Identifiable by the Eagle's Head (Tête d'Aigle) hallmark.
Type
Watch (Vintage Cocktail Watch)
Purity
18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold. Identifiable by the Eagle's Head (Tête d'Aigle) hallmark.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; a rich, high-karat warmth typical of mid-20th century French alloys.
Weight
15-25 grams (gross weight inclusive of movement and crystal). Gold weight estimated at 8-12 grams.
Description
An elegant French-made 18K yellow gold cocktail watch. This piece features a distinctively textured, scalloped case edge and a high-polish finish. It represents the height of feminine mid-century luxury, where jewelry and horology merged into a singular fashion statement.
Key Features
French Eagle's Head hallmark on the exterior case wall and a fluted mechanical winding crown.
Color & Finish
Deep saturation yellow; combination of high polish case back and decorative scalloped/textured bezel with natural age patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
French 'Eagle's Head' hallmark visible on the side of the case, indicating 18K gold purity and French manufacture/assay.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter: approx. 14-18mm (petite/ladies size). Bracelet width: approx. 6-10mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; decorative scalloped metalwork acts as the primary aesthetic element.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated bracelet clasp (likely fold-over or box-clasp style) common for the mid-century period.
Chain & Links
Decorative interlocking links visible on the sides, likely hand-pinned or snake-style construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast and hand-finished case. The scalloped edges and integrated lugs show high-quality precision metalwork.
Authentication Indicators
The Eagle's Head hallmark is deeply struck into the case side, a traditional French practice difficult to replicate accurately in plated items.
Origin & Maker
France; indicated by the specific assay mark style. Maker unknown without internal movement or case-back inspection.
Era & Period
Retro/Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1950s); defined by bold, sculptural gold work and petite dials.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955 based on the case profile and French hallmarking techniques.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of postwar prosperity, these 'jewelry watches' were essential accessories for formal attire before the era of digital timekeeping.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratching consistent with age (surface-level 'swirlies'). Some dirt accumulation near the lugs. No major dents.
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,400 depending on the movement's brand and functionality. Value is split between gold melt and vintage collectible appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft gold-polishing cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they may damage the mechanical movement inside.
Similar Items
Vintage Cartier or Omega cocktail watches of the same era; often features thinner cases if Swiss or more ornate textures if French.
Interesting Facts
France required the Eagle's Head hallmark on all 18K items since 1838. It is one of the most respected purity stamps in the world.