Up for sale is a superb antique German Art Deco Single Albert pocket watch chain, dating to approximately the 1920s, complete with its original hinged double-photo locket fob. This is a substantial and highly decorative gentleman’s chain with a warm rose-gold / yellow-gold tone, bold geometric Art Deco links, a dog clip, large spring ring and matching photo locket fob.
The chain is marked “AMERIKANER” and also carries the “SP” maker’s mark, associated with Friedrich Speidel of Pforzheim, Germany. The AMERIKANER mark refers to the period German rolled-gold / gold-filled construction and does not indicate American manufacture.
Please note: the letter “R” in the AMERIKANER stamp has become partially worn from age and use. It appears faint in the photographs, but the letter remains visible and identifiable when examined closely under magnification / with a jeweller’s loupe.
Gold Filled, Rolled Gold and Gold Doublé are period terms used for jewellery made with a genuine layer of gold mechanically bonded to a durable base-metal core. This construction is considerably more substantial and durable than ordinary modern electroplating, but it is not solid gold.
In simple terms, the outer gold layer is physically bonded to the supporting metal underneath rather than being applied only as a very thin electroplated surface. This is why good-quality antique rolled-gold jewellery can retain an attractive gold finish even after many decades of use.
The German “AMERIKANER” mark is associated with this type of rolled-gold / gold-filled construction and refers to the manufacturing method rather than the country of origin.
The chain is accompanied by a particularly attractive hinged double-photo locket fob. The locket has a compact square / cushion-shaped Art Deco form with stepped and clipped corners, giving it a strong geometric appearance typical of the period.
The front is decorated with an elongated oval panel containing fine engraved floral and scroll ornament, with a raised circular centre detail. The surrounding surface is clean and architectural in design, complementing the geometric links of the chain.
The locket opens on a side hinge and reveals two circular recessed photograph compartments, one on each side, originally intended to hold two small personal photographs. This type of sentimental watch-chain fob allowed the owner to carry photographs of loved ones or family members discreetly and securely.
The interior retains its warm gold-toned finish and shows light surface marks consistent with genuine antique use. The fob is suspended from the large spring ring by a short matching decorative chain section, creating a very attractive and balanced appearance when worn with a waistcoat and pocket watch.
Mint antique condition with light wear consistent with age. The chain remains complete and highly presentable, with strong articulation to the links and an attractive original finish. There are minor surface marks, gentle patina and normal age-related wear visible on the fittings and inside the photo locket. The locket opens and closes correctly.
The AMERIKANER stamp also shows normal age-related wear, especially to the letter “R”, which is lighter than the surrounding letters but can still be seen under magnification.
⚠ PLEASE STUDY THE PHOTOS CAREFULLY — THEY ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. WHAT YOU SEE IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE.
I specialise in genuine antique and vintage jewellery, pocket watch chains and collectible pieces. Every item is carefully inspected, accurately described and securely packed for safe delivery.
SHIPPING & CUSTOMS (UNITED STATES ONLY): This item is shipped using DELIVERY DUTY PAID (DDP) service. For US customers, ALL import duties, customs fees, and taxes are fully prepaid. You will receive your item with NO additional charges due upon delivery.
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