Glossary · Collecting
Chatelaine
A decorative clasp worn at the waist carrying a watch, key, seal and other implements.
Explanation
A chatelaine is a decorative clasp worn at the waist from which a watch, keys, seals and small implements hung on chains. Popular for women's watches from the 17th to the 19th century, chatelaines were made in everything from cut steel to gold and enamel. Complete examples with their original fittings are much rarer than the watches alone.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Chatelaine”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Pocket watch
Cartier, Paris platinum and diamond-set pendant watch with pearl and diamond-set chatelaine
“Cartier, Paris platinum and diamond-set pendant watch with pearl and diamond-set chatelaine”
Pocket watch
Cartier Art Déco 'Tutti Frutti' Chatelaine Watch
“Cartier Art Déco 'Tutti Frutti' Chatelaine Watch”
Pocket watch
Gold and Enamel Chatelaine Repeating Virgule Pocket Watch
“Gold and Enamel Chatelaine Repeating Virgule Pocket Watch”
Pocket watch
Swiss, signed Breguet, yellow gold, pearls, diamond-set and enamel quarter repeater verge openface pocket watch with chatelaine and key
“Swiss, signed Breguet, yellow gold, pearls, diamond-set and enamel quarter repeater verge openface pocket watch with chatelaine and key”
Component
J.H. v/d Meulen silver chatelaine with pocket watch key
“J.H. v/d Meulen silver chatelaine with pocket watch key”
Component
Gold Chatelaine with Watch and Accessories
“Gold Chatelaine with Watch and Accessories”