Description
This is a Retro Art Deco 1940s to 1950s expansion bracelet with gancy white gold plated filigree and green and white paste stones. It has a folding top which doubles as the hidden locking mechanism. The bracelet itself looks like an early filigree expansion band from a wrist watch. Underneath the folding centerpiece top it is marked Sentinel with a series of patent marks ranging from the 1940s to 1950s. Sentinel was part of the Ingraham watch company and known for their expansion bracelet watches but this bracelet has no watch, Although the folding mechanism works with east the little tooth that holds the lock in place has worn down. If you look at the open images you will see the little hole but the little tooth that goes into it is very tiny. You can feel it lock into place but it doesn’t stay closed for very long. All of the filigree is good and all of the Art Deco paste stones are original. Size is extra small. This inside diameter is 5 1/4″ around in diameter which would be typical of the Art Deco era and it expands up to a size 6″. I am a size 6 1/2″ and it is tight on me and eventually pops open. It measures exactly 6″ in diameter on the inside when stretched. Other than the worn lock it is in excellent overall condition. For anyone who can get that little tooth fixed in the lock you will have a stunning antique Art Deco past bracelet with a hard to find hidden folding lock . Gorgeous addition for any antique and vintage jewelry collection.
About Ingraham Watch Company Bracelets:
Fancy filigree Sentinel expansion bracelets from the 1940s and 1950s are highly collectible examples of mid-century “sweetheart” and watch-style jewelry. Manufactured primarily by the Ingraham Watch Company under their “Sentinel” brand line, these bracelets feature a mechanical expandable band paired with an ornate, folding decorative centerpiece.
Key Characteristics & Mechanics – The “Sweetheart” Heritage:
During WWII and the post-war era, expandable metal bands became massive trends. Soldiers frequently bought them as romantic tokens for women back home, lending them the nickname “sweetheart bracelets”.
The Hidden Folding Lock: Unlike standard slip-on expansion bands, the Sentinel line stands out because of its unique engineering. The ornate centerpiece features a folding top that doubles as a hidden locking mechanism. When flipped open, the bracelet can expand smoothly; when closed, a tiny metal tooth locks the centerpiece in place over the wrist.
Materials & Aesthetics: These pieces heavily borrowed from late Art Deco and Retro design movements. They were typically made of white gold plating, yellow gold filling, or sterling silver. The centerpieces feature intricate filigree metalwork—fine, lace-like open patterns—and are usually set with colorful glass “paste” stones, rhinestones, or cabochons.
Patent Markings: An authentic mid-century Sentinel bracelet will feature stamped patent marks dating from the 1940s or 1950s hidden right underneath the folding centerpiece.
