Vintage 1920s–1930s Art Deco Central Watch Co. 17-jewel ladies cocktail watch with original-style 1/20 12K GF expansion bracelet. Circa late 1920s to early 1930s, petite hexagonal/cushion case with geometric stepped lugs. Recently inspected, cleaned, and oiled; it runs as it should. Sold as-is due to age. 

Identification and History

The dial is signed “CENTRAL.” The movement is marked “CENTRAL WATCH CO. MODEL A6,” 17 jewels, and appears unadjusted (typical for ladies’ watches of this period). Central Watch Co. produced or assembled modest but stylish Art Deco cocktail watches, often using Swiss movements, for the American market. These were popular as dress/cocktail pieces in the late 1920s–1930s. The geometric hexagonal case and decorative lugs are classic Art Deco. Some sellers associate similar Central pieces with period American assemblers or private-label work (Bulova-style movements appear in related house brands of the era, though this example is signed Central). 

The bracelet is a period expansion/speidel-style piece marked Pagerette 1/20 12K GF (gold-filled). The case is gold-tone (12K RGP / rolled gold plate; the bracelet is 2K gold-filled type). These thin gold-filled layers were standard for affordable ladies’ jewelry watches of the era.

Measurements and Details

• Case width (across, from caliper photo): approximately 16.3 mm — a very petite ladies cocktail size.

• Manual-wind 17-jewel mechanical movement.

• Cream/off-white dial with Arabic numerals, “CENTRAL” at 12, and some expected age-related spotting and patina.

• Original-style knurled crown.

• Expansion bracelet with curved plaque and snake/expansion links.

The watch is non-waterproof (standard for the period) and should be treated as a dress piece.

Condition and Desirability

The case shows honest wear, light scratches, and some gold-tone thinning consistent with 90+ years of age; the geometric lugs remain attractive. The dial has vintage character (yellowing and spots) that many collectors prefer over a refinished look. The bracelet has expected patina and flex wear but remains complete and wearable. After recent cleaning and oiling the movement runs; vintage 17-jewel ladies movements of this size can be reliable with periodic care but are sold as-is because of age.

This style is desirable to Art Deco and vintage ladies-watch collectors for the distinctive small hexagonal case and original-feeling gold-filled bracelet. Comparable running Central or similar 1920s–30s 17-jewel cocktail watches typically sell in the $50–150 range depending on exact condition, originality, and presentation. The combination of a serviced runner, complete bracelet, and strong Deco case shape helps this one.