Cartier Vintage 18K Yellow Gold-Plated Vendome Santos Aviator Eyeglasses
Eyewear / Luxury Prescription Frames · Yellow Gold finish with high luster, likely alloyed with copper and silver to achieve the classic warm 18K Cartier hue.
Purity: 18K Gold Finish (Heavy Micron Plated). This indicates an electroplated layer of 18-karat gold over a base metal, usually monel or titanium, containing 75% gold in the outer layer.
Type
Eyewear / Luxury Prescription Frames
Purity
18K Gold Finish (Heavy Micron Plated). This indicates an electroplated layer of 18-karat gold over a base metal, usually monel or titanium, containing 75% gold in the outer layer.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish with high luster, likely alloyed with copper and silver to achieve the classic warm 18K Cartier hue.
Weight
25 - 35 grams (Total weight including lenses and temple tips). The gold weight is negligible as this is a plated luxury accessory.
Description
A masterpiece of luxury eyewear, these Cartier Vendome Santos frames represent the intersection of high jewelry and functional design. Featuring the signature screw motif inspired by the Santos de Cartier watch, these aviator-style frames offer a commanding presence. Accented by a burgundy leather soft case with gold-finished corners, they embody the 'Must de Cartier' era of elegance.
Key Features
Signature 'C' decor or Santos screw motifs at the hinges, dual-tone bridge textures, and unique serial numbers for authentication.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a high-polish mirror finish. The bridge and hinges feature the iconic 'Santos' brushed/textured contrast with recessed screw motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cartier branding on the inner bridge and temples. Typical stamps include 'Cartier Paris', a serial number, and 'MADE IN FRANCE'. Plating marks often include a small square symbol.
Dimensions Estimate
55-60mm lens width, 14-18mm bridge width, 135-140mm temple length. Standard adult unisex fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones. Features iconic 'Santos' screw head decorative inlays in the hinges and burgundy acetate temple tips with gold-toned logo end caps.
Clasp & Closure
High-quality spring-loaded or fixed precision hinges with recessed screws for tension adjustment.
Chain & Links
N/A. Solid metal bridge and temple construction with a 'D-shape' profile on the arms for ergonomic comfort.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional precision in the screw seating and temple flexibility. The plating thickness is significantly higher than standard fashion frames, designed for decades of wear.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'Cartier' script, sharpness of the screw motifs, and the presence of a specific serial number format. Low-quality fakes often have 'pitted' plating or blurry stamps.
Origin & Maker
Handcrafted in France by Cartier. Manufactured in the legendary Cartier Lunettes workshop.
Era & Period
Modern Vintage / 1980s-1990s. The 'Vendome' and 'Santos' designs were pinnacle status symbols of this high-glamour era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1988-1995 based on the bridge design and the style of the leather pouch provided.
Cultural Significance
Symbol of wealth and executive status in the late 20th century; popularized again in modern pop culture by celebrities and vintage collectors.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Minor surface micro-scratches on the plating. Nose pads show slight yellowing consistent with age. Leather pouch shows light wear on edges.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value between $600 - $1,200 USD depending on condition and original packaging. Melt value is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and specific jewelry/eyewear cleaner. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can loosen the screws or damage the plating over time.
Similar Items
Fred Force 10 Eyewear, Vintage Ray-Ban Precious Metals line, or modern Cartier Panthère frames.
Interesting Facts
Cartier eyewear from this era was so prestigious it was often sold through high-end jewelers rather than standard opticians. It remains highly collectible in the 'Hip Hop' and 'Vintage Luxury' fashion subcultures.