1960s London Bus Charm
A heavy, vintage gold charm modelled after one of London's iconic Routemaster busses. The number 17 to be specific. With its characteristic cut-out front and the hop-on-hop-off door at the back, Routemasters populated London's bus network for nearly 50 years - from their introduction in February 1956 to retirement from regular service in 2005 (although two heritage routes continued using them as recently as 2019).
From Wikipedia:
"A pioneering design, the Routemaster outlasted several of its replacement types in London, survived the privatisation of the former London Transport bus operators and was used by other operators around the UK. In modern UK public transport bus operation, the old-fashioned features of the standard Routemaster were both praised and criticised. The open platform, while exposed to the elements, allowed boarding and alighting in places other than official stops; and the presence of a conductor allowed minimal boarding time and optimal security, but with greater labour costs."
This charm was made during the 1960s, crafted in solid 9 carat gold with London hallmarks and enamelled finish including the word LONDON in black hand-painted lettering over a yellow background. The wheels turn, and route 17 is between Archway, North London, and London Bridge. When it opened on February 1st 1961, it connected North Finchley and Camberwell Green via East Finchley - Highgate - Archway - Holloway - Caledonian Road - King's Cross (Sat pm/Sun) - Gray's Inn Road - Holborn Circus - Farringdon Street - Blackfriars - Elephant & Castle.
Era: Vintage, 1969
Size: 2.3cm by 3cm (height, without bail, by width)
Hallmarks: English, 9ct Gold, London, 1969, IJLD makers mark
Condition: Fair, some losses to the enamel and the wheels are a bit wobbly
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
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Layaway
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Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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