This quality Albert Chain features graduated curb links, a T-bar, fishing medal and dog clip fastening, measuring 16", and is modelled in Sterling Silver.
This chain has many hallmarks, confirming the metal as sterling silver. It weighs an impressive 80.6 grams and has been recently polished, showcasing a beautiful bright shine. The chain dates to Birmingham, 1899 with the fishing medal added later.
An Albert chain is a decorative chain initially used to attach a pocket watch to the wearer's clothing. The chain was named after Prince Albert, who was said to have been fond of wearing watch chains. The Dog clip would have been used to attach a pocket watch or fob, and the T-Bar would go through the buttonhole of a waistcoat to secure it in place.
Today, these are worn as necklaces, and the clips can be used to hang pendants or charms.
This is a quality example of an Albert chain, which would make a great addition to any collection.
METAL
Sterling Silver
MEASUREMENTS
Measures 13.75" from dog clip to large ring
Measures total including medal - 17.5"
Measures 16" from dog clip to top of medal
1.1cm across the widest curb link,
Dog clip measures 2.1cm x .8cm
T-Bar measures 4.2cm
Medal measures 3.9cm x 2.8cm
WEIGHT
80.5 grams
HALLMARKS
Chain - Each link features the lion mark (some faded), Birmingham, Date letter z (1899)
T-bar - W.W.C, Lion mark, Date letter z (1899)
Dog Clip - JS, Date letter difficult to read
Medal - SILVER
CONDITION
This antique silver Albert watch chain remains in good condition. The chunky and bright links show little wear, with each curb link bearing the lion mark, some slightly faded but all present. The dog clip is in fine working order and securely holds the chain together. The t-bar is in perfect condition, and the medal pendant completes this beautiful chain.
Item Number - SD515