Victorian gentlemen tended to decorate their watch chains with fobs. Watches were worn in the waistcoat pocket, with a chain attached for easy access. The fob helped to add a counterweight so the chain wouldn't be pulled by the heavier watch. Some fobs were merely ornamental, and others held a practical purpose, used to stamp in sealing wax on letters. This watch fob, elaborately showy, could have been sported by a real dandy! The best dressed gentlemen were called Nobs and Swells, and it was said that they felt 'perfectly comfortable in a ballroom'.
Although not engraved, the very large faceted citrine stone on this fob could be used to seal a piece of correspondence, and would certainly lend itself to strolling about town in ones best suit! Gorgeously mounted in 14 karat gold, it would make a beautiful pendant to wear on a chain. A piece of sunshine with a heft and style perfect for all who cherish jewels from a bygone era!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 37mm x 27mm x 22mm; Citrine stone is 22.7mm x 18mm
Weight: 20.9 grams
Materials: Gold, citrine
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent antique condition
LORL, LOE