Vintage 14k gold pocket watch chain and mourning fob
An antique solid 14 karat gold pocket watch chain and mourning fob, circa late 1800’s. The chain is comprised of eleven, one inch elongated oval links connected together by 1/2 inch hand engraved scroll pattered oval links. Three of the smaller oval links are hand engraved with the initials LJS, JFS and MJS. The chain has a lobster clasp at one end for attaching to the bow of a pocket watch. On the other end of the chain is a bar toggle for inserting into the hole of a button up shirt or vest. The chain and lobster clasp have significant wear on the locations where the links connect together, consistent with 100+ years of use. The total length from the lobster clasp to the FOB tip is 18.5”.
Suspended from the toggle is a 14 karat gold shield shaped, hinged mourning fob. Commonly used for storing a lock of hair within the compartment to remember the loved one. One side of the locket has a brass plate with a hand engraved monogram “BTR”. On the opposite side is a shield shaped layered white and black onyx secured by beads. The onyx has a slight chip on the tip.
A superb example of late Victorian craftsmanship, this chain is the perfect compliment for the pocket watch connoisseur.