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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Coin watch

Sarcar 18k yellow gold 'Shah of Iran' coin watch

Partially verified

This coin watch by Sarcar is housed in an 18k yellow gold case measuring 31 mm in diameter, dated by the source to circa 1970. Designed in the manner of a commemorative medal or coin pendant, the visible side presents three overlapping relief profile portraits representing three generations of the Pahlavi dynasty, surrounded by Persian inscriptions. According to the source, the opposite face features the Pahlavi crest, and the watch is powered by a manual-wind 17-jewel movement signed by the maker on the dial, case, and movement.

Reverse of the Sarcar 18k gold coin watch showing three Pahlavi dynasty profiles
Reverse of the Sarcar 18k gold coin watch showing three Pahlavi dynasty profiles — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Pocket watch · Coin watch
Maker / attribution
Sarcar
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
88
Source-reported date
circa 1970
Country
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Design

This Sarcar timepiece is presented as an 18k yellow gold manual-wind coin watch with a diameter of 31 mm. The design incorporates a reeded coin-edge rim, a ribbed winding crown, and a suspension loop.

The coin surface features three overlapping left-facing relief portraits representing three generations of the Pahlavi dynasty, accompanied by Persian calligraphy. According to the catalog, the opposite face displays the Pahlavi crest.

Evidence for this section
  • “18k yellow gold, manual wind coin watch”
  • “Diameter 31”
  • “A fine, rare and unusual, 18k yellow gold, manual wind coin watch with the Pahlavi Crest and the reverse with portraits of the 3 generations of the Pahlavi dynasty”
  • “Three overlapping left-facing relief portraits of male figures in military collars on a circular coin surface.”

Movement and Condition

The watch is powered by a 17-jewel manual-wind movement, with signatures present on the dial, case, and movement. The source records indicate that the case is slightly scratched and the dial exhibits slight oxidation.

The catalog lists a movement condition grade of 2* and notes that an overhaul is recommended at the buyer's expense. Specific movement caliber numbers are not recorded in the entry.

Evidence for this section
  • “Caliber 17 jewels”
  • “Signature dial, case and movement”
  • “Case: 2-8 Very good Slightly scratched”
  • “Dial: 2-6-01 Very good Slightly oxidized”
  • “Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Provenance and Documentation

The production period is estimated by the source as circa 1970. The watch is accompanied by a fitted pouch and tassel.

Previous ownership is identified as the property of a US gentleman. Detailed serial numbers are not provided in the source.

Evidence for this section
  • “Year circa 1970”
  • “Accessories fitted pouch and tassel”
  • “Provenance Property of a US gentleman”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific manufacturer movement caliber used in this reference?
  • What is the precise translation of the Persian calligraphy appearing on the coin surface?
  • Is there a specific serial number located on the inner case back or movement that differentiates this unit?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Sarcar 18k yellow gold 'Shah of Iran' coin watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Case material18k yellow gold“18k yellow gold, manual wind coin watch”
Movement jewels17 jewels“Caliber 17 jewels”
Diameter31 mm“Diameter 31”
ModelCoin "Shah of Iran"“Model Coin "Shah of Iran"”
SignaturesDial, case and movement“Signature dial, case and movement”
Auction ResultSold for 3,750 CHF“Sold: CHF 3,750”

Visible details

  • Three overlapping left-facing relief portraits of male figures in military collars on a circular coin surface.
  • Persian calligraphy inscribed along the perimeter and below the figures.
  • Pointed suspension loop fixed over a ribbed winding crown at the top.
  • Reeded coin-edge rim surrounding the circumference of the case.

Research qualifications

  • The dial side and internal movement are not visible in the provided image.
  • Movement caliber and specific serial numbers are not recorded in the catalog entry.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

SARCAR, SWITZERLAND, COIN "SHAH OF IRAN", 18K YELLOW GOLD | | Geneva, May 9th-10th, 2026

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 2dfd8cda1b

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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