18K Yellow Gold French Art Deco Pocket Watch with Matching Albert Chain
Pocket Watch and Albert Chain · Yellow Gold; a rich, classic hue consistent with high-karat French alloys of the early 20th century.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Pocket Watch and Albert Chain
Purity
18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; a rich, classic hue consistent with high-karat French alloys of the early 20th century.
Weight
Total weight approximately 85-110 grams (including movement), with gold case weight estimated at 25-35 grams.
Description
An exquisite Art Deco timepiece featuring a slim, elegant profile typical of the 1920s gentleman. The case is adorned with a sophisticated harlequin guilloché pattern that captures light across its geometric planes. It is paired with a matching fancy-link gold chain, providing a complete and rare historical set.
Key Features
Harlequin diamond engine-turned case; matching period-correct fancy link chain; slim 'dress watch' profile.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow; features a mix of high-polish edges and a engine-turned (guilloché) harlequin diamond pattern on the case back.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely contains the French 'Tête d'Aigle' (Eagle's Head) representing 18K gold, typically found on the pendant or chain links.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter: 48mm-52mm (Standard 16 size); Chain length: 12-14 inches.
Gemstones & Inlays
No visible gemstones; decorative emphasis is placed on the geometric engine-turning and patterned chain links.
Clasp & Closure
Swivel dog-clip for watch attachment and a spring ring at the opposite end; features a classic bow for the watch pendant.
Chain & Links
Fancy link Albert chain featuring decorative elongated oval filigree links alternating with circular cable links.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision engine turning on the case; hand-assembled chain links; high-quality soldering on the watch pendant and bow.
Authentication Indicators
The luster and deep yellow tone are consistent with French 18K gold; the crispness of the engine turning suggest a solid gold case rather than gold-fill.
Origin & Maker
Likely French origin (based on the platform source and style); possible makers include Lip, Zenith, or Omega for the movement.
Era & Period
Art Deco (circa 1920-1935), indicated by the clean harlequin pattern and geometric link design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925; manufacturing techniques suggest early 20th-century precision engine turning.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from functional utility to high-fashion jewelry for men in the early 20th century, before the widespread adoption of wristwatches.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the case shows minor surface abrasions and softening of the engine turning at the edges consistent with pocket wear.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500 USD, depending on movement brand/complication and current gold spot price. Value is split between gold content and horological collectibility.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and magnetic fields; clean gold components with a soft dry cloth only; professional mechanical servicing recommended every 5 years.
Similar Items
14K American Waltham or Elgin pocket watches (usually thicker); gold-filled vintage watches which show 'brassing' or wear-through at edges.
Interesting Facts
Engine turning (guilloché) involves using a rose engine to engrave intricate patterns; it was pioneered by Abraham-Louis Breguet in the late 1700s.