Large Vintage 80s Kieselstein-Cord Vermeil Large Retriever on Alligator Belt

Barry Kieselstein-Cord introduced his status belt buckles in the late 1970's and they had an immediate cult following. This is one of his large sized iconic Labrador Retriever buckles, made from solid sterling silver with an 18K gold vermeil plating. Each of the buckles is numbered, and this one is number 178. As a jeweler for many years, Kieselstein-Cord pieces really speak to us; they are so beautifully made-- heavy, detailed, cheeky (Check out the man in the moon that makes up the dogs' buckle)-- and are unabashedly luxe. Speaking of luxe.. the buckle is on a faaabulous olive green glazed alligator belt. Talk about quiet luxury! When you know his work, you know it; it doesn't need a logo to make its' presence, and we like that. 
 
~MEASUREMENTS:
3 1/2"L x 2"H x 7/8"H - Buckle
29"-34.5" Wearable length x 1"W Belt
 
 
~FEATURES:
Buckle:
Sterling silver (106g) with gold vermeil
Prong closure
Stamped B Kieselstein-Cord 1984 USA Sterling 178
Star and Moon stamps in bone shaped plate
Belt:
Olive green glazed alligor leather
Olive green calfskin backing
2 silvertone snaps
Olive green belt catch
 
~CONDITION:
Excellent vintage condition. There is no real plating loss, or excessive scratches. The very tip of the nose has a small smush, like it banged up against something hard (shown in pic). We did go ahead and lightly polish the high points so that the oxidization wasn’t removed, and it is being stored with an anti-tarnish strip in a zip-top jewelers bag. The belt shws a minimal amount of wear on the back edge from rubbing against belt loops most likely.  The leather is in excellent condition, and has been moisurized using an exotic leather conditioner.  You can always leave it out for some time to allow it to get its' patina back if you want, or keep it sealed up safe to prevent tarnish. Whatever you do, wear it and enjoy it... this is a fabulous piece of American jewelry history!
 
++Due to the value of this piece, it will only ship within the United States, and it will ship insured++
 
For reference sake, dress form measurements:
5'7" Height
14" Shoulders
37" Bust
27" Waist
36" Hips