Wrist Watch Appraisal

Antique Ladies' Gold-Toned Wrist Watch with Flexible Bracelet

This is an antique or vintage ladies' wrist watch, characterized by its round, pocket watch-style case and integrated flexible bracelet. The watch case appears to be made of gold-toned metal, possibly gold-filled or solid gold, exhibiting a slight reddish patina indicative of age and perhaps a higher copper content in the alloy (rose gold) or general oxidation. The dial is a distinctive faded yellow or ivory color, with black Arabic numerals for hours and a darker inner ring for minute markers. The hands are prominent, possibly spade or Breguet style, and also appear to be dark-toned, providing good contrast against the light dial. The crown is located at the 12 o'clock position (when oriented for wear), typical of watches that transitioned from pocket watch designs to wristwatches. A prominent bail or loop is attached to the watch case near the crown, suggesting it could have also been worn as a pendant watch, or that this design element was carried over from pocket watch aesthetics. The bracelet is of a flexible, articulated link design, constructed from segments of gold-toned metal that appear to be hollow or tubular, connected by smaller, possibly flat or rounded, links. This type of bracelet, often referred to as a 'ladder' or 'flexible bar' style, was popular in the early 20th century. Visible condition issues include a general wear and tear consistent with its age, with some slight discoloration or dirt build-up in the crevices of the bracelet links. The dial shows some signs of age-related discoloration but appears to be largely intact without major cracks. The crystal is clear but might exhibit fine scratches typical of usage. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced item from the late 19th to early 20th century, likely between 1900 and 1930, during the period when wristwatches gained widespread popularity for women. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures in the provided image.