Xanadu Gold Eagle Coin Watch (Ten Dollar United States Liberty Head Style)
Coin Watch / Dress Watch · Xanadu. This was a fashion-forward luxury brand active in the late 20th century, often sold in higher-end department stores or jewelry boutiques, capitalizing on the popularity of the Corum Coin Watch.
Period: Modern Luxury (1980s-1990s Aesthetic). The use of the integrated mesh bracelet and the coin-dial motif mimics the ultra-luxury style popularized by Corum in the 1960s, but this specific 'Xanadu' branding suggests a late 20th-century fashion-to-premium production.
Type
Coin Watch / Dress Watch
Brand
Xanadu. This was a fashion-forward luxury brand active in the late 20th century, often sold in higher-end department stores or jewelry boutiques, capitalizing on the popularity of the Corum Coin Watch.
Movement
Swiss Quartz. Most watches of this specific 'Xanadu' brand and era utilized slim ETA or Ronda quartz calibers to maintain a low profile.
Dimensions
Case Diameter: 32mm - 34mm; Thickness: 5mm - 6mm; Lug Width: Integrated; Lug-to-Lug: 36mm (estimated).
Description
This Xanadu timepiece is a classic example of the 'Coin Watch' genre. It attempts to capture the prestige of an heirloom gold coin by using its face as the dial. The watch prioritizes jewelry aesthetics over horological complexity, featuring a thin profile and a glittering mesh bracelet that catches the light like fabric. Its presence is intended to be both patriotic and opulent.
Key Features
The primary feature is the 'Ten Dollar' U.S. Eagle coin dial and the integrated weaving of the mesh bracelet. The offset 'Xanadu' signature in script is the brand's identifying hallmark.
Dial Description
The dial is a replica or an authentic United States '$10 Gold Eagle' reverse face. It features the Heraldic Eagle with shield, holding olive branches and arrows. The text 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'TEN D' are embossed. The 'Xanadu' brand name is printed in script at the 7-8 o'clock position.
Case Material
Commonly 14k or 18k Yellow Gold or Gold-Plated (Vermeil or PVD). Based on the oxidation visible on the case edges and the texture of the bracelet, it is likely a high-quality gold plating over a base metal or silver, or a lower karat gold.
Crystal Type
Flat Mineral Glass or Sapphire. Given the visible surface scratches and light reflections, mineral glass is most probable.
Bezel Details
Fixed, polished thin bezel. Minimalist design intended to frame the coin dial without distraction.
Crown & Pushers
Small, knurled push-pull crown at 3 o'clock. Often features a black cabochon (synthetic sapphire or onyx) at the tip, though not clearly visible in the image.
Bracelet or Strap
Integrated Mesh/Milanese style bracelet. Known as a 'woven' gold strap, it features a fold-over jewelry clasp. The bracelet is integrated directly into the case for a seamless 'cuff' look.
Caseback Details
Solid, likely snap-on caseback. Usually contains engravings for material purity (e.g., '18K Gold Electroplated' or '14K Gold'), the brand name, and the movement origin (Swiss).
Movement Type
Swiss Quartz. Most watches of this specific 'Xanadu' brand and era utilized slim ETA or Ronda quartz calibers to maintain a low profile.
Water Resistance
Non-existent. Typically rated 'Dust Resistant' or 1 ATM. Should not be worn near water or in high-humidity environments.
Origin & Provenance
Components often sourced from Switzerland (Swiss Parts) and assembled either in Europe or Asia. It is not an 'in-house' manufacturer in the horological sense.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985–1995. The script logo and the specific scale of the mesh bracelet are very indicative of this timeframe.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Power Dressing' era of the 1980s where gold accessories and motifs of wealth (like currency) were major fashion statements. It bridges the gap between a time-telling device and a piece of jewelry.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches on the bezel and crystal. Significant dirt/grime buildup in the mesh bracelet links. The gold finish appears to show some wear/thinning on high-friction areas. Lume is non-existent as per the design.
Value Estimate
Secondary market price: $150 – $400 USD. Value is heavily dependent on whether the case is solid gold (scrap value + premium) or gold-plated (fashion value only). The brand 'Xanadu' does not carry a high collector premium.
Care & Maintenance
Requires regular battery changes (every 2-3 years). The mesh bracelet should be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner by a professional to remove skin oils and debris. Avoid water entirely as seals of this age and type are rarely reliable.
Similar Watches
Corum Heritage Coin Watch (the original high-end inspiration), Geneve Coin Watches, and various vintage Seiko or Citizen 'Coin Dial' models.
Interesting Facts
The 'Coin Watch' was made famous by Corum in 1964, who used actual halved $20 Double Eagle coins. Brands like Xanadu created more accessible versions using replicas or smaller denominations to achieve the same high-society 'money on the wrist' look.