Oleg Cassini 35th Anniversary Edition Two-Tone Quartz Dress Watch
Jewelry (Watch) · Oleg Cassini. Cassini was an iconic French-born American fashion designer primarily known for his association with Jacqueline Kennedy. His watches were produced under license, typically by third-party manufacturers, as part of his lifestyle brand expansion in the late 20th century.
Pattern: 35th Anniversary Commemorative Edition (1950-1985 series)
Type
Jewelry (Watch)
Maker
Oleg Cassini. Cassini was an iconic French-born American fashion designer primarily known for his association with Jacqueline Kennedy. His watches were produced under license, typically by third-party manufacturers, as part of his lifestyle brand expansion in the late 20th century.
Material
Base metal with silver-tone and gold-tone plating (two-tone). Despite the 'silver' appearance, this is not sterling silver; it is stainless steel or chrome-plated base metal. The tag mentions 'Mineral Crystal' for the face cover.
Dimensions
Standard men's dress watch size. Approx 28-32mm case width. Lightweight construction, estimated 50-70 grams total weight including the expansion band.
Description
An elegant commemorative dress watch by designer Oleg Cassini, released to celebrate 35 years of his fashion brand. The piece features a striking two-tone bracelet and a sophisticated dark textured dial with gold accents, presented in its original blue velvet lined display box with commemorative hangtags.
Key Features
35th anniversary commemorative tag, Oleg Cassini logo-patterned dial, original presentation box, and two-tone color scheme typical of 1980s fashion.
Material & Composition
Base metal with silver-tone and gold-tone plating (two-tone). Despite the 'silver' appearance, this is not sterling silver; it is stainless steel or chrome-plated base metal. The tag mentions 'Mineral Crystal' for the face cover.
Finish & Decoration
Polished and brushed two-tone finish. The dial is a dark 'monogram' or 'smoke' finish featuring repeating Oleg Cassini logos. The watch features a minimalist dress style with gold-tone hands and markers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The dial and inner gift box are stamped 'Oleg Cassini Quartz'. The case back likely contains 'Stainless Steel Back' and 'Base Metal Bezel' stamps along with a model number. Transition tags show '35th Anniversary' and 'Certified Product'.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. Features a quartz movement, snap-on or screw-down case back, and an integrated link-style expansion or folding clasp bracelet. The crystal is mineral glass.
Functional Features
Time-only function (analog). Battery-powered quartz movement. Water-resistant (not waterproof). Pull-push crown for time setting.
Handle & Grip Details
Adjustable segmented metal link band. Secured with a standard jewelry clasp or expansion mechanism.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial-grade assembly. Plating is uniform; movement is a reliable Japanese or modular quartz. Design focus is on aesthetic brand appeal rather than high-end watchmaking.
Authentication Indicators
Genuine Oleg Cassini branding on dial, box, and tags. Packaging is consistent with 1980s department store designer watches. No 'Sterling' mark is present on the band, confirming it is plated fashion jewelry.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Japan or Hong Kong under designer license for the American market.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (Specifically mid-1980s). The 35th anniversary tag indicates a production date around 1985 (counting from the brand's rise in 1950).
Age Estimate
Circa 1984-1986
Cultural Significance
Represents the 1980s boom in designer-branded fashion accessories where the 'label' was the primary selling point for the middle-class consumer market.
Condition Notes
Excellent to New Old Stock (NOS) condition. The presence of the original tags and box suggests it was never worn. Surface shows minimal shelf wear. Battery likely needs replacement.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven by the 'New Old Stock' condition and the original packaging rather than the metal content or horological complexity.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid immersion in water. Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Remove old batteries immediately to prevent acid leakage which can destroy the movement. Store in the provided box to prevent plating wear.
Similar Pieces
Vintage Seiko two-tone watches, Pierre Cardin designer watches, or contemporary Cartier Tank-style homages from the same period.
Interesting Facts
Oleg Cassini was the 'Secretary of Style' for the White House during the Kennedy administration. While he made high-end gowns, his brand eventually became one of the first to heavily license its name to mid-tier products like these watches.