Vintage Rolex Precision Ladies Cocktail Watch, 18k Yellow Gold / Gold Over Silver Vermeil
Jewelry (Watch) · Rolex; founded in 1905, Rolex is the most prestigious Swiss watchmaker globally, known for technical precision and luxury. This 'Precision' line represents their high-quality manual-wind calibers.
Pattern: Rolex Precision Cocktail Series; introduced in the mid-20th century as dress-focused jewelry timepieces for women, now highly collectible as vintage 'secret' or 'cocktail' style jewelry.
Type
Jewelry (Watch)
Maker
Rolex; founded in 1905, Rolex is the most prestigious Swiss watchmaker globally, known for technical precision and luxury. This 'Precision' line represents their high-quality manual-wind calibers.
Material
Likely 18k or 14k Yellow Gold, or potentially gold-washed Sterling Silver (Vermeil). Base metals used in the strap appear to be woven gold wire or high-quality gold plating over silver (EPNS/Vermeil).
Dimensions
Small 'cocktail' size: case diameter approximately 15-18mm; bracelet length standard 6-7 inches; estimated weight 20-35 grams including movement.
Description
An elegant vintage Rolex Precision ladies cocktail watch featuring a round gold case and an ornate woven bracelet. The dial is clean with a classic Rolex coronet at 12 o'clock, reflecting the height of mid-century feminine luxury.
Key Features
Triple-beaded 'fan' lugs, manual wind Precision movement, original crown with Rolex logo, and the iconic 'Swiss' signature at the 6 o'clock position.
Material & Composition
Likely 18k or 14k Yellow Gold, or potentially gold-washed Sterling Silver (Vermeil). Base metals used in the strap appear to be woven gold wire or high-quality gold plating over silver (EPNS/Vermeil).
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror-polished case with a textured 'wheat' or 'chevron' style woven band. Mid-Century Modern style with a minimalist sunburst-effect dial and applied arrowhead gold indices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect a Rolex coronet on the crown and dial. Internal case back likely features a Rolex Swiss hallmark, gold purity stamp (e.g., 18K / 0.750), and a model/serial number.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed dial, cast case, and hand-finished woven bracelet. The bracelet is integrated into decorative triple-beaded lugs which are soldered to the case.
Functional Features
Manual winding mechanism (mechanical), two-hand time display, fluted winding crown, and a jewelry-style fold-over clasp.
Handle & Grip Details
Woven metal 'Milanese' or 'Wheat' style bracelet; integrated decorative lugs with triple-sphere motifs at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality Swiss assembly; features fine beading on the lugs and tight, uniform weaving in the bracelet, indicative of luxury manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Rolex coronet, font consistency in the 'Precision' and 'Swiss' text, and quality of the woven metalwork. Authenticity requires movement inspection to confirm a Rolex-signed caliber (e.g., Cal. 1400).
Origin & Manufacturing
Swiss Made; Geneva and Bienne, Switzerland. Rolex utilizes vertically integrated manufacturing, though historical bracelets were often outsourced to specialized Swiss jewelers.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / 1950s-1960s; characterized by the petite dial size and the shift toward watches as evening jewelry rather than utilitarian tools.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the 'Precision' script, arrowhead indices, and the specific lug design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war era of formal dining and high-fashion galas where women's watches were designed to complement evening gowns and fine jewelry.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface scratches on the case and acrylic crystal; dial shows minor oxidation typical for its age. Mechanical movement requires servicing for accuracy.
Value Estimate
$1,200 - $3,500 depending on gold content (solid gold vs. plated) and current mechanical functionality.
Care & Maintenance
Never submerge in water; avoid perfumes/sprays which damage gold luster. Clean with a dry microfiber cloth and have a specialist watchmaker oil the movement every 5 years.
Similar Pieces
Omega Ladymatic cocktail watches or Patek Philippe vintage dress watches; Rolex Cellini is a more modern alternative but often lacks the integrated woven bracelet style.
Interesting Facts
The 'Precision' name was used for Rolex watches that were not COSC chronometer certified, yet were renowned for their slim, reliable manual-wind movements optimized for small cases.