The Avon Birthstone Cuff Watch collection, released in 2005, represents a unique intersection of jewelry fashion and birthstone symbolism. These cuff-style quartz watches, manufactured by Avon, were designed to correspond with each month of the year, featuring stones intended to represent the associated birthstone. While not utilizing traditional gemstones in all instances, the watches offered an accessible and affordable way for consumers to connect with the lore surrounding birthstones. This article details the available information regarding these watches, focusing on their design, materials, and the birthstone associations as presented in the available sources.
History and Production
The Avon Birthstone Cuff Watch collection debuted in 2005. The watches were sold through Avon representatives, a common distribution method for the company’s products. The sources indicate that the watches were “new in its original box” and “never worn,” suggesting they were primarily sold as collectible items or gifts. The watches were marketed as a boutique item, indicating a slightly higher perceived value within Avon’s product line. Production appears to have been limited to the 2005 timeframe, as the sources consistently reference this year of manufacture. The watches were intended to be a fashionable accessory, capitalizing on the enduring popularity of birthstone jewelry.
Design and Materials
The Avon Birthstone Cuff Watches feature a distinctive cuff-style design. The band is described as being covered in a “faux embossed leather” or “faux animal skin,” providing a textured appearance. The watch case is constructed with a “silver tone” finish. The dial is white and accented with stones intended to represent the corresponding birthstone for each month. The watches utilize a Japanese quartz movement, indicating a focus on reliable timekeeping. The diameter of the dial is approximately one inch, and the bracelet measures eight inches in length. The watches were secured with a plastic clip between the watch and the knob, ensuring they remained securely fastened.
Birthstone Associations and Specific Models
The available sources detail specific examples of the watches associated with particular birth months.
- November: A watch was specifically identified as being for the month of November, featuring “topaz colored stones” around the white dial. This aligns with topaz being a recognized birthstone for November.
- June: Another model was identified as representing June, featuring a “lavender faux animal skin wrapped cuff.” While amethyst is a commonly associated birthstone for June, the use of lavender coloring suggests a stylistic interpretation rather than a direct gemological match.
- May: A May birthstone cuff watch in “Green” was also available.
The sources do not provide a complete listing of all twelve birthstone watches, leaving the specific stone colors and band materials for the remaining months unknown. However, the examples demonstrate Avon’s intention to create a collection representing the entire birthstone calendar.
Market and Availability
The Avon Birthstone Cuff Watches are now primarily available on resale markets, such as Poshmark and eBay. The watches are listed as “vintage” or “antique” items, appealing to collectors of Avon memorabilia and birthstone jewelry. The listed price for these watches varies, with some being offered individually for $5, while others are part of bundled sales. The watches are often sold as part of larger lots of Avon jewelry, indicating their appeal as collectible items. The availability of these watches is limited, reflecting their production run in 2005 and their subsequent status as vintage items.
Collecting and Condition
The sources indicate that many of these watches are still in new condition, having “never been worn” and retaining their original packaging. This makes them particularly desirable to collectors. The presence of the original plastic clip is noted as a sign of authenticity and pristine condition. When purchasing these watches on resale markets, buyers should verify the condition of the band, the functionality of the quartz movement, and the presence of any original packaging. The watches are often sold “as is,” so careful inspection of the listing photos and descriptions is recommended.
Sources
- Avon Birthstone Cuff Watch May Green 2005
- NIB AVON Women's Birthstone Cuff Watch
- Avon Birthstone Cuff Watch June
- eBay Search Results
Conclusion
The Avon Birthstone Cuff Watch collection of 2005 represents a unique and affordable foray into the world of birthstone jewelry. While not utilizing traditional gemstones in all cases, the watches successfully captured the aesthetic and symbolic appeal of birthstones, offering consumers a fashionable and accessible way to connect with this enduring tradition. The watches are now sought after by collectors of Avon memorabilia and vintage jewelry, representing a nostalgic piece of early 21st-century fashion. The limited production run and the availability of many watches in new condition contribute to their collectibility and enduring appeal.