18K White Gold Vintage Style Diamond Set Cocktail Case
Jeweled Watch Case / Bracelet Component · White Gold with visible high-polish finish; alloy likely includes nickel or palladium for color.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) with suspected white gold plating or composition; 75% pure gold alloy content.
Type
Jeweled Watch Case / Bracelet Component
Purity
18K (750 fineness) with suspected white gold plating or composition; 75% pure gold alloy content.
Gold Type
White Gold with visible high-polish finish; alloy likely includes nickel or palladium for color.
Weight
Estimated case weight of 8-12 grams excluding movement; substantial side profile suggests a solid rather than hollow build.
Description
A sophisticated white gold cocktail watch case featuring a gracefully curved profile. The bezel is embellished with a row of diamonds that follow the arched contour, while the lug pins are uniquely accented with vibrant blue cabochons. This piece represents the mid-century transition from ornate Art Deco to sleek, streamlined luxury.
Key Features
Curved 'Tank' style silhouette, diamond-set chamfered edges, and distinctive blue cabochon lug fasteners.
Color & Finish
High-polish silver-toned finish with significant surface scratching and oxidation; metallic grey-white luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on the side profile; hallmarks would typically be located on the interior back case or lug underside.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 25mm-30mm length; approx. 6mm thickness; fits a standard feminine cocktail watch movement.
Gemstones & Inlays
Bezel-set round brilliant diamonds (approx. 0.01-0.02ct each) along the curved edge; two blue synthetic or sapphire cabochons on the strap pins.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-in pin lug system for strap attachment; case appears to be a snap-back or pressure-fit construction.
Chain & Links
Attaches to a black leather or cord strap; lugs are integrated and straight-edged with decorative blue-capped pins.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cast main body with hand-set pavé diamonds and hand-finished lug pin caps; precise symmetry in the arched bezel curvature.
Authentication Indicators
Color uniformity across the scratch indicates solid white gold rather than plating; stone setting style is consistent with mid-century hand-finishing.
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin (Swiss or Italian); design language is consistent with luxury houses such as Omega or Longines.
Era & Period
Late Retro to Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1960s) styling; common in high-end dress watches of that era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the case thickness and the use of cabochon-topped pins for the lugs.
Cultural Significance
Cocktail watches were essential status symbols for women in mid-century formal society, designed to function as jewelry first and timekeepers second.
Condition Notes
Fair-Good condition. Significant surface micro-scratches and one deep gouge/abrasion on the lateral side. Stone settings appear secure but need cleaning.
Value Estimate
Melt value estimated at $450-$600; collectible/retail value as a complete vintage watch could range from $1,200 to $2,500 depending on brand.
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional ultrasonic cleaning; white gold may require rhodium replating to restore the bright mirror finish once polished.
Similar Items
Cartier Tank Cintrée, Hamilton Lady Hamilton, or vintage Movado cocktail watches with similar arched profiles.
Interesting Facts
During the mid-20th century, white gold surpassed platinum in popularity for jeweled watches because it was more affordable yet offered similar durability and brilliance.