18K Yellow Gold Presentation Pocket Watch - La Commune d'Anderlecht 1971
Watch · Yellow Gold with a classic warm tone, likely alloyed with silver and copper
Purity: 18K / 750 fineness, containing 75 percent pure gold
Type
Watch
Purity
18K / 750 fineness, containing 75 percent pure gold
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a classic warm tone, likely alloyed with silver and copper
Weight
Estimated between 40 to 80 grams total gross weight including internal mechanical movement and crystal
Description
An elegant and historically rich 18K yellow gold presentation pocket watch, featuring a polished stepped case back inscribed with a tribute from the Municipality of Anderlecht to M. Mulkers in 1971. The classic round silhouette is topped with a distinctively styled geometric rectangular bow and a ribbed winding crown, reflecting the fine European horological presentation customs of the early 1970s.
Key Features
Personalized civic presentation engraving, 18K solid yellow gold construction, geometric rectangular pendant bow, classic high-polish stepped bezel
Color & Finish
Rich warm yellow gold with a high-polish mirror finish on the stepped bezel and case back, featuring crisp hand or machine engraving
Hallmarks & Stamps
European 750 purity mark likely located on the inside case back or movement bezel, accompanied by Swiss or Belgian assay marks
Dimensions Estimate
Standard pocket watch size, approximately 45mm to 50mm in diameter excluding the pendant bow and crown
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features personalized commemorative text deeply engraved on the case back
Clasp & Closure
Integrated top-wind crown with a rectangular pendant bow designed for attachment to a pocket watch chain or fob
Chain & Links
Not applicable as this is a standalone pocket watch case, though it is designed to be paired with a gold pocket watch chain
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-machined gold case with hand-finished mirror polishing, clean and deep rotary or pantograph engraving, and standard mid-century European crown and bow assembly.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep serif engraving typical of official 1970s European municipal giftware, consistent gold color and patina, and standard European case architecture. Professional XRF testing is recommended to verify exact gold alloy composition.
Origin & Maker
Belgian presentation origin, commissioned by the Municipality of Anderlecht (La Commune d'Anderlecht) for a recipient named M. Mulkers
Era & Period
Vintage 1970s Retro/Mid-Century Modern revival, explicitly dated 1971 via engraving
Age Estimate
Circa 1971 production year based on the prominent commemorative engraving
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-20th-century European tradition of honoring public service, municipal administration milestones, and long-term employment through high-value precious metal gifts.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with minor surface hairline scratches on the high-polish back consistent with careful handling and age. Engraving remains extremely sharp and legible.
Value Estimate
Valued based on a combination of its precious metal melt value (18K gold content), historical personalized presentation appeal, and collector interest in vintage European timepieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning cleaners due to the mechanical watch movement inside. Store in a padded, anti-tarnish watch box away from moisture and harsh chemicals.
Similar Items
European 18K gold presentation pocket watches from makers like Omega, Tissot, or Longines, differing primarily in movement brand and case manufacturer signatures inside the back cover.
Interesting Facts
Anderlecht is one of the nineteen municipalities forming the Brussels-Capital Region in Belgium. Presentation pocket watches were traditionally gifted by local governments and corporations to long-serving employees or civic figures upon retirement or milestone anniversaries.