18K White Gold Piaget Baignoire Style Cocktail Watch with Diamond Bezel
Jewelry Watch - Oval Cocktail Style · White Gold. The alloy appears to have a bright, cool luster consistent with rhodium plating over an 18K white gold base.
Purity: 18K (750) white gold. This purity contains 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel and typically finished with rhodium plating.
Type
Jewelry Watch - Oval Cocktail Style
Purity
18K (750) white gold. This purity contains 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel and typically finished with rhodium plating.
Gold Type
White Gold. The alloy appears to have a bright, cool luster consistent with rhodium plating over an 18K white gold base.
Weight
Estimated gold weight of 12-18 grams for the case, excluding the quartz movement, crystal, and leather strap.
Description
An elegant ladies' cocktail watch featuring a classic vertically elongated oval case. The shimmering mother-of-pearl dial is set with elongated Roman numerals, framed by a sparkling double-border diamond bezel that elevates the piece from a timepiece to fine jewelry.
Key Features
Double-row diamond bezel, mother-of-pearl dial, unique stylized crown logo, and 'Baignoire' case geometry.
Color & Finish
High-polish rhodium finish presenting a brilliant, silvery-white color. Surface appears smooth with minor abrasions typical of moderate wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect '750' or '18K' stamps on the case back or between the lugs. The dial features a crown-style logo which may identify a specific boutique or private label maker.
Dimensions Estimate
Case length: 32mm; Case width: 18mm (approximate); Petite 'Ladies' size; Strap width: 8-10mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Dual-row pave-set bezel featuring approximately 40-50 round brilliant natural diamonds. Estimated total carat weight: 0.80 - 1.20 cts. Dial is white mother-of-pearl.
Clasp & Closure
Standard tang buckle. High-end examples usually feature an 18K white gold buckle matching the case purity markings.
Chain & Links
N/A - Black leather lizard or calfskin strap with standard pin-and-lug attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast and hand-finished case. Diamonds appear grain-set (pave), indicating high-tier jewelry manufacturing. The Roman numerals are finely printed with high-contrast ink.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of stone settings; clarity of the Roman numerals on the dial; crispness of the crown and lugs. A 'red flag' would be if the case back reveals base metal or 'Steel Back' markings.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, possibly Swiss or Italian. The logo on the dial (double 'B' or stylized crown) is characteristic of boutique luxury jewelers rather than mass-market brands.
Era & Period
Contemporary with Retro-Revival influences. The 'Baignoire' or bathtub-style oval shape was popularized in the early 20th century and saw a resurgence in the 2000s.
Age Estimate
Estimated production circa 1995-2010 based on the quartz movement profile and stone-setting style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of watches from functional tools to high-fashion status symbols, specifically designed for evening wear and formal social events.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible micro-scratching on the case back and lugs; crystal appears clear; diamonds are intact. Leather strap shows mild creasing.
Value Estimate
Melt value: $800-$1,000; Resale value: $2,500-$4,500 depending on diamond quality and movement brand. Value is primarily in the jewelry craftsmanship and gold/gemstone content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid immersion in water as these vintage-style cocktail watches often lack heavy gaskets. Clean with a dry microfiber cloth. Professional rhodium plating every 3-5 years will maintain the bright white luster.
Similar Items
Cartier Baignoire (standard), Patek Philippe Ellipse, or Chopard Happy Sport Oval. Cartier versions command significantly higher premiums due to brand heritage.
Interesting Facts
The oval 'Baignoire' shape was famously designed by Louis Cartier in 1912 after he was inspired by the shape of a bathtub; it has since become a symbol of chic, feminine luxury.