Cartier Trinity Round Gold-Plated Eyeglasses
Eyewear / Eyeglasses Frame · Three-Tone accents (Yellow, White, and Rose Gold) on the decorative hinges; Yellow Gold finish elsewhere
Purity: 18K Gold-Plated / Gold-Filled (typically 20-30 microns of 18K gold over a base metal like monel or acetate)
Type
Eyewear / Eyeglasses Frame
Purity
18K Gold-Plated / Gold-Filled (typically 20-30 microns of 18K gold over a base metal like monel or acetate)
Gold Type
Three-Tone accents (Yellow, White, and Rose Gold) on the decorative hinges; Yellow Gold finish elsewhere
Weight
25g - 40g (total weight including lenses)
Description
A classic example of Cartier’s 'Trinity' eyewear line, featuring perfectly round gold-finished rims. The centerpiece is the decorative hinge hardware, which mimics the famous 1924 Trinity ring design of interlocking yellow, white, and rose gold. These frames represent the pinnacle of luxury optical wear from the late 20th century, combining Parisian jewelry heritage with high-end eyeglass manufacturing.
Key Features
Signature Trinity interlocking ring motif on temples; high-quality Cartier serial numbering; round 'Harry Potter' style vintage profile; branded nose pads
Color & Finish
High-polish yellow gold finish with iconic brushed/polished tri-color interlocking rings at the temples
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cartier logo, serial number, and 'Made in France' on inner temples; 'Cartier Paris' and 18K purity marks typically on bridge or ear pads
Dimensions Estimate
Bridge: 18-20mm; Lens width: 48-52mm; Temple length: 135-145mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; features the signature Trinity 'Three-Ring' metal inlay motif at the temple hinges
Clasp & Closure
Spring-loaded hinges or standard barrel hinges with Cartier-specific screws
Chain & Links
N/A; thin gold-finished wire rims and tubular temples with comfortable acetate ear tips
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional plating thickness (heavy gold electroplate); meticulously finished smooth hinges; perfectly balanced weight distribution for all-day wear
Authentication Indicators
Precision of the Cartier logo stamping; unique serial number on the temple; the 'Must de Cartier' or Trinity branding consistency; high quality of the gold plating (thick micron count)
Origin & Maker
France; Cartier (Manufacture Cartier Lunettes in Joinville-le-Pont)
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Vintage 1980s-1990s aesthetic)
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-1998 based on the Trinity motif and frame silhouette
Cultural Significance
Cartier eyewear became a major status symbol in the 1980s and 90s, often associated with hip-hop culture and high-society fashion in cities like Detroit and Paris.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratches on the gold finish; lenses appear clear; ear tips show minimal oxidation or wear
Value Estimate
$400 - $1,200 depending on presence of original box/papers and condition of the gold plating
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage plating over time; use a microfiber cloth and specialized lens cleaner; store in a hard case to prevent frame misalignment
Similar Items
Cartier Vendome, Cartier Tank, or Fred Force 10 sunglasses; lighter 14K solid gold wire frames by Savile Row
Interesting Facts
The Trinity design used on these glasses was originally created by Louis Cartier in 1924 at the request of French artist Jean Cocteau.