Vintage 18K Yellow Gold 'Antichoc' Cocktail Watch
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry) · Yellow Gold - Deep warm buttery alloy likely composed of gold, silver, and copper.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) - Contains 75% pure gold. Hallmarked '750' or Eagle's head typical of French origins.
Type
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) - Contains 75% pure gold. Hallmarked '750' or Eagle's head typical of French origins.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold - Deep warm buttery alloy likely composed of gold, silver, and copper.
Weight
12 - 18 grams (estimated total weight including movement; gold weight approximately 8-10g).
Description
An elegant mid-century ladies' cocktail watch featuring a solid gold oval case and a distinctive textured link bracelet. The dial is clean and functional, preserved under a domed crystal, representing the height of feminine mid-century utility meets luxury.
Key Features
Pyramidal diamond-cut link texture that catches light; 'Antichoc' shock-resistance movement; integrated jewelry-style gold bracelet.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold with a high-luster diamond-cut finish on the bracelet links and a polished case bezel.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually located on the case back or the clasp. Contains '750' stamp and potentially a manufacturer's cartouche. 'ANTICHOC' printed on dial indicates shock protection system.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter: 18mm (approx.); Bracelet width: 5-6mm; Total length: 16-17cm (Adjustable/standard petite).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. Features a silver-tone sunburst dial with Arabic numerals and needle hands.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated ladder clasp or fold-over security clasp with multiple sizing notches.
Chain & Links
Diamond-patterned textured bar links with flexible mechanical hinges for a draped wrist fit.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped links with hand-finished assembly and soldering. Hand-wound mechanical movement (typical of this profile).
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency is typical of 18K gold; hallmark placement at the clasp/case junction; weight-to-volume ratio matches solid gold rather than plated steel.
Origin & Maker
Likely French or Swiss origin. 'Antichoc' is a common French horological term used by various regional ateliers.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s - 1960s) - Stylized by 'Antichoc' branding common in European watches of this time.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960 - Based on dial typography and the geometric bracelet texture.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war era where watches transitioned from purely functional tools to daily luxury jewelry items for women.
Condition Notes
Very Good - Minor surface scratches on the case and light oxidation at the lugs. Movement appears intact; crystal is clear without major facets.
Value Estimate
Melt value approx. $500-$650 (gold weight); Retail/Collector value: $900-$1,200. Value increases if the movement is functional and Swiss-signed.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage vintage movements. Wipe with a gold polishing cloth. Keep away from water (non-waterproof vintage seals).
Similar Items
Omega Ladymatic, vintage Tissot cocktail watches, or Piaget jewelry watches from the same era.
Interesting Facts
The 'Antichoc' label refers to the Rubiflex or Incabloc-style shock protection which was a major selling point for durable luxury watches in the 1950s.