Antique Jakob Bengel Watch Chain Bracelet Deco WWI Era (c.1910-20) Versatile Chunky Mixed Metal Chain

Before Jakob Bengel became famous for his Art Deco Avantgarde necklaces, his factory in Idar Oberstein (Germany) specialised in making good quality watch chains like this one. This striking chunky watch chain dating from the Great War (World War I) era, makes a versatile and historically evocative antique accessory. It can be worn as a bracelet (suitable to be worn by both ladies and men) short watch or wallet chain, or even, when paired with a second chain of similar length - a fierce looking necklace.

It is made of three segments of thick chunky rose gold filled chain interspersed with two decorative links made of steel accented with emerald glass.

It is 8.5 inches long - but the length can be adjusted (just drop us a line) - and fastens with Albert fob (dog clip) and large bolt (spring ring) clasps at either end. In good vintage condition: the decorative links show areas darkened with age, but these have been cleaned and sealed with a protective polish. Most Bengel chains from this period show discoloration of this kind, but such imperfections give these remarkable chains a rough and rugged look with heaps of historical character.

The Jakob Bengel factory was founded in 1873 in Idar-Oberstein, Germany. Initially, it specialized producing watch chains (like this one) and chatelaines but, in the 1920s and 1930s, it became one of the leading manufacturers of Art Deco fashion jewellery. Inspired by Bauhaus, French Avantgarde artists and fashion trendsetters like Chanel, they began producing experimental jewellery using new materials like galalith, combinations of brass and chrome, and geometric shapes. Most Bengel jewellery is unsigned. The Bengel factory was closed during WWII, when galalith was deemed an essential product for munitions, but it reopened after the war and is now a museum.

ITEM DETAILS

Era/Style: Early Art Deco - 1910-20 Great War Era
Measurements: 8.5 inches long - which looks great on either a female or male wrist (length adjustment available - just drop us a line).
Materials: Steel, gold filled metal, green glass.
Signatures/Hallmarks: none (Bengel chains like this were not signed but are easily recognisable because of their distinctive design and robust quality).
Fastenings: large bolt (spring ring) and Albert fob (dog clip)
Condition: good vintage, with some age-darkened areas, but clean and sealed with a light polish which preserves its antique character and acts as a protective coating.

LAYAWAY PLAN AVAILABLE: happy to split payments into up to three instalments.

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Many thanks! Alice xx