Vintage 12K-14K White Gold-Filled Navigator Style Sunglasses
Eyewear (Sunglasses) · White Gold (treated or alloyed at surface); likely a rhodium-finished or nickel-alloyed white gold-filled layer over a base metal core like monel or nickel-silver.
Purity: High potential for Gold-Filled (GF) or Gold-Plated (GP) base metal; usually 1/10 12K or 14K in vintage frames, meaning 5% of weight is gold alloy.
Type
Eyewear (Sunglasses)
Purity
High potential for Gold-Filled (GF) or Gold-Plated (GP) base metal; usually 1/10 12K or 14K in vintage frames, meaning 5% of weight is gold alloy.
Gold Type
White Gold (treated or alloyed at surface); likely a rhodium-finished or nickel-alloyed white gold-filled layer over a base metal core like monel or nickel-silver.
Weight
35-45 grams (total weight including glass/plastic lenses and plastic components). Metal content alone likely 15-20 grams.
Description
A classic pair of navigator-style sunglasses featuring a robust white-gold plated or filled metal frame. The design is characterized by its rectangular lenses and distinctive horizontal linear engravings along the rim and bridge, providing a luxury industrial aesthetic popular in the late 20th century.
Key Features
Triple-ribbed/stepped decorative rims, double bridge construction, green-tinted lenses, and high-quality screw hinge assembly.
Color & Finish
Cool bright silver tones with a high-luster polished finish on the rim edges and bridge, featuring stepped/ribbed decorative linear detailing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually located on the inside of the bridge or temples (not visible in image). Expect '1/10 12K GF', '14K GF', or a maker's brand like 'Bausch & Lomb' or 'Ray-Ban'.
Dimensions Estimate
Frame width 135-145mm; Lens width 55-58mm; Temple length 135-140mm; Bridge width 15-18mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones present. Green-tinted mineral glass or polycarbonate lenses; clear plastic/acetate nose pads and temple ear-rests.
Clasp & Closure
Standard barrel hinge mechanism with miniature screw fasteners; integrated bridge structure.
Chain & Links
N/A - Rigid frame construction with hinged folding temples and a reinforced double/triple bar bridge design.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and hand-assembled; precision soldering at the bridge points and hinge lugs; decorative rolling-mill textures on the eyewire.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the white metal color; crispness of the linear engravings; typical vintage screw-head sizing; wear patterns on bridge consistent with skin contact.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or Italian manufacture; hallmarks found on inner bridge usually identify brands such as Ray-Ban, American Optical, or Persol.
Era & Period
Modernist/Retro Influenced; stylistic indicators suggest late 1970s to 1980s navigator/aviator aesthetic with distinctive linear 'stepped' rim design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1990 based on lens shape, bridge height, and the specific ribbed texture of the metal alloy frames.
Cultural Significance
Represented the shift from mid-century teardrop aviators to the more aggressive, squared-off 'Navigator' look adopted by pilots and style icons in the 1980s.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair condition. Significant scratch/crack visible on the left lens. Metal appears intact with minor surface oxidation on the temples; plastic earpieces show yellowing due to UV exposure and age.
Value Estimate
Retail/Collectible: $100-$250 depending on brand; Scrap Value: Negligible as 'gold-filled' items are difficult to refine in small quantities.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if stones or coatings are present; clean with microfiber cloth and mild soap; store in a hard case; professional lens replacement recommended due to visible damage.
Similar Items
Ray-Ban Caravan sunglasses, American Optical General, or vintage Randolph Engineering frames. Differences include temple thickness and bridge height.
Interesting Facts
Gold-filled eyewear was the standard for high-end optical frames for decades because it offered the look and corrosion resistance of gold while maintaining the structural rigidity needed for facial support.