A substantial and ingeniously designed 9ct gold keyring, London hallmarked 1986, with maker's strike for K. Weiss. The keyring is modelled in the form of a key — a pleasing conceit — with an internal spring mechanism in the head of the key that opens to secure keys onto the ring, then closes to hold them securely. The combination of functional design and the self-referential key-within-a-key form gives this piece a wit and intelligence that sets it apart from a conventional keyring. At 6.7g and 4.5 × 2cm it is a keyring of considerable weight and presence — the kind of object that rewards daily handling. Wearable also as a pendant. London hallmarked 375 (9ct gold), 1986; maker's mark K. Weiss.

The Details

• Dated: 1986
• Weight: 6.7g
• Dimensions: 4.5 × 2cm
• Hallmarks: London 1986; 375 (9ct gold); maker K. Weiss
• Mechanism: Internal spring to secure keys