Antique women's lapel watch

Details About Your Antique Watch

• Medium: Base metal with stainless steel back
• Distinguishing Marks: "D.O Base Metal Stainless" engraved on the back
• Condition: Fair
• Size: 2 inches tall, 1.25 inches wide
• Date Period: Unknown
• Weight: Unknown
• History: This watch belonged to your grandmother and is believed to have been passed down from another family member.
• Price Paid: Unknown

What Is This Watch?

Your watch appears to be an early to mid-20th-century decorative brooch or pendant-style watch. The use of "Base Metal" and "Stainless" suggests that it was designed as an affordable yet stylish timepiece. The decorative design hints at an Art Deco influence, which was popular in the 1920s and 1930s.

Estimated Value

• Historical Value: Its value as a family heirloom may be greater than its monetary worth.
• Collector’s Value: Watches like these, depending on their condition and maker, can range from $50–$150 if in working order and if the design is appealing to vintage watch collectors.
• Factors Affecting Value:
  • The decorative design and craftsmanship may appeal to collectors of Art Deco-style jewelry and watches.
  • If the watch is functional or could be restored to working condition, this would increase its value.

Historical Context

Watches like this one were often worn as brooches or pendants and served both as practical timepieces and decorative accessories. During the early 20th century, particularly in the Art Deco period, intricate designs and geometric patterns were popular. These types of watches were typically worn by women as fashionable alternatives to wristwatches.

Recommendations

• Preservation: Store the watch in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prevent further tarnishing or damage.
• Repair: Consider consulting a watch repair specialist to determine if it can be restored to working order.
• Research: Explore online forums or databases, such as Watchuseek, for more information about the "D.O" marking or similar watches.
• Appraisal: Contact a vintage jewelry appraiser or auction house specializing in antique watches for a more detailed valuation.

Where to Sell or Learn More

• Consider selling on platforms such as eBay or Etsy.
• Reach out to vintage watch dealers or collectors who specialize in Art Deco or early 20th-century timepieces.

Final Thoughts

This attractive vintage watch is an interesting piece of family history with potential appeal to collectors of vintage and Art Deco-style jewelry. Its sentimental value as a family heirloom adds a layer of importance that may surpass its monetary value.