Cartier Vendome Louis Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Plated Sunglasses
Eyewear / Luxury Sunglasses · Yellow Gold (High luster, warm tone characteristic of 18K Cartier plating)
Purity: 18K Gold Plated (Electroplated over a metal base, likely monel or nickel silver)
Type
Eyewear / Luxury Sunglasses
Purity
18K Gold Plated (Electroplated over a metal base, likely monel or nickel silver)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High luster, warm tone characteristic of 18K Cartier plating)
Weight
35 grams to 45 grams total weight (item is not solid gold)
Description
The Cartier Vendome is one of the most iconic luxury eyewear designs in history, famously worn by celebrities and style icons. This specific model features the 'Louis Cartier' finish, characterized by the three-gold-line detailing on the temples and bridge. The aviator-style teardrop lenses are framed in high-quality gold plating, offering a bold yet sophisticated aesthetic that bridges the gap between functional eyewear and fine jewelry.
Key Features
Aviator silhouette, signature Cartier 'C' hinges, triple-ribbed Louis Cartier temple motifs, and serialized authenticating numbers.
Color & Finish
Vibrant rich yellow gold color with a high-polish mirror finish on the bridge and temple ribs; matte black accents on temple hinges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found inside the bridge and temples: 'Cartier Paris', size markings (e.g., 62-14), and a serial number. May include a small plaque stamp for gold plating thickness (e.g., 20 microns).
Dimensions Estimate
Standard frame size: 140mm temple length, approx 59mm to 62mm lens width, 14mm bridge.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones visible; features signature 'C' de Cartier temple design and black composite ear socks.
Clasp & Closure
Precision spring-loaded or fixed hinges with high-quality screws; temple tips are finished with acetate/composite for comfort.
Chain & Links
Tri-wire (Trinity style) temple construction featuring three parallel gold-plated lines representing the Louis Cartier design language.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional precision in the parallel wire soldering and hinge alignment. The electroplating is applied with industrial-grade thickness (often 20 microns) compared to standard jewelry plating.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the triple ribs, clarity of the engraved serial number inside the temple, weightiness of the frame, and the specific 'leboncoin' watermark suggests a secondary market listing which requires verification of the serial number against Cartier records.
Origin & Maker
France; Manufactured by Cartier (Maison Cartier).
Era & Period
Modern / Iconic 1980s Vintage Inspiration
Age Estimate
Likely a vintage 1980s-1990s production or a contemporary re-edition.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of peak 1980s luxury and corporate power dressing; it remains a staple in hip-hop culture and high-fashion vintage collecting.
Condition Notes
Good; visible light wear on the gold plating near the bridge. Surface scratches consistent with gentle use. Structure appears straight and hinges functional. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Resale value ranges from $800 to $1,500 USD depending on lens condition and presence of original packaging/papers. Melt value is negligible (plating only).
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with specialized microfiber cloths and pH-neutral lens cleaner. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage plating or lens coatings over time. Store in a hard-shell case to prevent structural warping.
Similar Items
Cartier Santos Sunglasses (screw motif), Ray-Ban Aviators (non-luxury alternative), Fred Force 10 Eyewear.
Interesting Facts
The Vendome model gained global fame after being featured on Christopher Walken in the James Bond film 'A View to a Kill' (1985).