Vintage Flamor 18K Yellow Gold Cocktail Watch
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry Style) · Yellow Gold, featuring a rich, warm classical alloy likely containing copper and silver.
Purity: 18K / 750 (approx. 75% pure gold), potentially gold-plated or gold-filled bracelet based on varying patina; case typically solid 18K for Flamor era pieces.
Type
Watch (Cocktail/Jewelry Style)
Purity
18K / 750 (approx. 75% pure gold), potentially gold-plated or gold-filled bracelet based on varying patina; case typically solid 18K for Flamor era pieces.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, featuring a rich, warm classical alloy likely containing copper and silver.
Weight
15-20 grams total (case and bracelet), with an estimated net gold weight of 8-10 grams excluding movement and crystal.
Description
An elegant vintage Flamor cocktail watch featuring a petite round dial with Arabic numerals and index markers. The piece is defined by its ornate, biomorphic gold scrolling lugs that bridge the case to a textured link bracelet. The dial bears the 'Ebauche Suisse' mark, indicating a quality mechanical Swiss movement inside.
Key Features
Distinctive openwork scrolling lugs, petite watch face, 'Ebauche Suisse' movement origin, and period-correct mechanical wind-up crown.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold color with high-polish finishing on the scrolling lugs and a textured/diamond-cut bracelet. Visible patina and micro-scratches consistent with vintage wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '750' or '18K' on the inner or outer case back; 'Flamor' and 'Ebauche Suisse' on dial. Hallmarks for gold often located on claps or case lugs.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter: 15-18mm; Bracelet width: 6-8mm; Total length: ~6.5 - 7 inches (Standard ladies cocktail size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; decorative scrolling openwork lugs serve as the primary aesthetic focus.
Clasp & Closure
Likely a fold-over jewelry clasp or box clasp with ladder adjustment for sizing.
Chain & Links
Integrated link bracelet with diamond-cut repeating pattern and decorative openwork filigree-style lugs.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck components with hand-finished assembly; characteristic French jewelry-watch construction with high-polish flourishes on the gold scrollwork.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and warmth of metal; 'Ebauche Suisse' branding typical of Flamor; period-authentic typography on the dial. Red flag: potential for gold-filled bracelet replacement.
Origin & Maker
French origin; Flamor was a notable French jeweler/watchmaker brand often utilizing Swiss movements (Ebauche Suisse).
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro Transition (circa 1950s-1960s) identified by the petite dial and ornate scrolling lug work.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1955 and 1965 based on the dial typography and lug design.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th century trend where women's watches were designed primarily as jewelry pieces for evening wear and formal social events.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor pitting on dial (aging/patina), surface scratches on gold, and typical wear to the bracelet links. Functional status unknown; likely requires servicing.
Value Estimate
$400 - $800 depending on gold spot price and mechanical functionality; value is primarily in the gold content and vintage aesthetic rather than numismatic watch rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water (non-water resistant). Clean only with a dry jewelry cloth. Professional mechanical servicing every 5 years for movement longevity.
Similar Items
Vintage Omega cocktail watches, Cartier 'Backwind' models, or vintage Baume & Mercier jewelry watches.
Interesting Facts
Flamor is a French brand that was highly popular in the mid-20th century for creating 'Bijoux-Montres' (Jewelry Watches), blending traditional goldsmithing with timekeeping.