Antique 14K Yellow Gold Squirrel-Hallmarked Pocket Watch Case
Watch (Pocket Watch Case) · Yellow Gold. Classic warm tone typically achieved with copper and silver alloys.
Purity: 14K (585/1000). Represents 58.3% gold content, mixed with durable alloys for structural integrity.
Type
Watch (Pocket Watch Case)
Purity
14K (585/1000). Represents 58.3% gold content, mixed with durable alloys for structural integrity.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. Classic warm tone typically achieved with copper and silver alloys.
Weight
25-45 grams. Subject to overall diameter; weight refers to the case only, excluding movement.
Description
A utilitarian yet luxurious Swiss-made 14K yellow gold inner case for a pocket watch. The piece features the official hallmark for 14K gold (the Squirrel) and a unique six-digit serial number, indicating it was part of a high-quality production run common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Key Features
Official Swiss Squirrel stamp, deep-struck serial numbering, and visible hinge-mount structure for watch movements.
Color & Finish
Pale to medium yellow with a matte, aged patina and significant surface oxidation/toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Swiss 'Squirrel' hallmark (indicating 14K gold) and serial number '221106' at the base of the inner case back.
Dimensions Estimate
Likely 40-50mm in diameter; standard men's or large ladies' pocket watch size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. Internal case back is purely utilitarian and decorative only by its mechanical finish.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged case back (cuvette). Internal snap-fit closure for dust protection.
Chain & Links
Smooth, beveled case edge for hinge attachment; no external chain visible.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped serial numbers with hand-struck hallmarks. High-precision hinge-work typical of Swiss tool-and-die manufacturing of the era.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the Squirrel hallmark is a primary Swiss indicator for 14K gold. Consistent stamp depth and naturally occurring patina suggest a genuine antique.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland. The Squirrel hallmark was the official Swiss symbol for 14K gold export and domestic use.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Early Edwardian (circa 1880-1915), based on the Swiss Squirrel hallmark used for 14K gold.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910 based on hallmark style and the typography of the stamped serial numbers.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of Swiss horological export dominance during the turn of the century when gold pocket watches were essential status symbols.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratching, heavy patina, and micro-pitting. Hallmark remains legible but the surface requires cleaning.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value based on gold weight + 15-25% collector premium. Approx. $800 - $1,500 depending on total gold weight and brand association.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a specialized jewelry cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning if the movement is still attached. Keep in a dry environment to prevent further copper-alloy oxidation.
Similar Items
18K Gold cases (hallmarked with a Helvetia/Lady's Head) or gold-filled cases (marked 'Guaranteed 20 Years' or 'Plated').
Interesting Facts
The Squirrel hallmark was specifically used in Switzerland between 1880 and 1933 to designate 0.585 fineness gold.