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A rare and captivating survivor from the golden age of design, this exceptional Art Deco locket bangle is the kind of jewel that instantly draws the eye and refuses to be forgotten. Elegant, meaningful, and beautifully made, it carries nearly a century of history while still feeling effortlessly wearable today.

Crafted between circa 1925 and 1935 by the highly regarded firm of Bates & Bacon, this bangle is one of the finest examples of its type we have ever had the pleasure of offering. The design embodies everything that makes the Art Deco era so enduringly desirable: confident curves, balanced proportions, and exquisite decorative detail that feels both luxurious and timeless.

The bangle is made in high‑quality gold fill, a superior and traditional technique where a thick layer of solid gold is mechanically bonded to a base metal. This is worlds apart from thin gold plating and was never intended to be cheap or disposable. 
Instead, it creates a piece that looks and wears like solid gold, holds its rich warm tone beautifully, and is renowned for its longevity when properly cared for.

Designed in a classic oval shape, the bangle will comfortably fit a wrist of around 18 cm, or slightly more. At its centre is a truly enchanting feature: an ornate opening locket, framed by scrolling decorative flourishes that add depth, elegance, and unmistakable period charm. The locket opens smoothly and securely, ready to hold a treasured photograph or memento close to the skin. The front is delicately engraved with the monogram “HES”, a subtle and romantic reminder of its past life and the personal stories it once held.

Inside, the bangle is fully hallmarked for Bates & Bacon and carries the patented design number December 20605, confirming its authenticity and early 20th‑century heritage. These details speak to the quality, reputation, and craftsmanship of a firm known for producing jewellery meant to last.

The condition is nothing short of remarkable. There are no dents, dings, or noticeable scratches, the locket opens and closes perfectly, and the gold surface remains bright and lustrous. It came to us in such pristine condition that it required no cleaning at all, and during our time with it, it has shown no signs of tarnish. From long experience, bangles of this calibre—when made properly—seem to endure decade after decade with ease.

This is far more than a beautiful antique; it is a living piece of history, quietly waiting for a new wrist and a new story. Elegant, personal, and endlessly wearable, this Bates & Bacon locket bangle is the kind of jewellery that becomes a lifelong companion and, in time, a treasured heirloom once again.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
18cm wrist circumference

WEIGHT
22.15 Grams

MARKS
‘Bates & B’  -  for Bates & Bacon
‘Patd Dec 26 05’ - For Patented December 26 1905

ERA
Art Deco era 

CONDITION
Excellent antique condition. This bangle presents in almost ‘new’ condition, it appears to have spent little if no time on the wrist. There are no dents or dings to any area of the bangle.  Locket compartments opens and close with a lovely tight snap.  No repairs, no damages. The bangle opens and closes with ease and closes very securely.  Very comfortable to wear.  Amazing!

WHO ARE BATES & BACON?

Bates & Bacon was a respected American jewellery manufacturing firm active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, best known for finely made gold jewellery produced during the height of the U.S. industrial jewellery boom.  Formed in 1867, evolving from earlier partnerships, by Bates and Bacon to focus on gold filled  jewellery and watch cases.  

Bates & Bacon utilised advanced manufacturing techniques of the era while maintaining a strong emphasis on finish and durability.
Their jewellery was typically stamped with the maker’s mark “B & B” or “Bates & Bacon”, often alongside gold purity marks such as 10K, 14K, or percentage fineness marks, depending on the market for which the piece was produced.