Water Goblet in the 'Fontaine' Pattern
Ralph Lauren (Produced by Mikasa or Towle for the Home Collection) · Kitchenware > Stemware
Era / Decade
Late 1990s to Early 2000s based on the optical ribbing and baluster stem design commonly seen in the RL Home expansion.
Material
High-quality leaded or lead-free crystal with an optical vertical rib pattern and a multi-tiered baluster stem.
Condition
Excellent. The glass appears clear without cloudiness/sickness, chips on the rim, or significant flea bites on the base.
Demand Level
Moderate to Niche. Demand is highest for buyers looking specifically for replacements to complete a discontinued set.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$18.00 (Low) - $28.00 (Mid) - $40.00 (High) per single stem. Replacement sites sell for the higher end.
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 per stem when originally sold.
Comparable Sales
Individual stems in the Fontaine pattern recently sold on eBay for between $22 and $35 plus shipping depending on the specific size (Water vs. Wine). Sets of 4 often perform better, reaching $100+.
Description
This elegant Ralph Lauren crystal water goblet features the sophisticated 'Fontaine' optical rib design. Standing on a distinctive tiered baluster stem, the bowl displays vertical optic lines that catch the light beautifully. Perfect for formal dining or as a replacement piece for a classic Ralph Lauren Home collection.
Key Features
Ralph Lauren brand recognition, discontinued pattern (Fontaine), timeless optical rib design, heavy quality weight, and collectible status for those completing sets.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentic pieces often feature a faint acid-etched 'Ralph Lauren' signature on the underside of the base. Construction quality and weight are high. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Check for very fine 'flea bite' chips on the base edge or rim which can occur during storage. Ensure there is no 'dishwasher haze' (a permanent white clouding).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy are best for this. These platforms attract buyers searching for specific discontinued patterns via keywords. Replacements, Ltd. is an option but offers lower buy-back prices.
Selling Tips
Use high-contrast photography against a dark background to show the optic ribs. Use keywords like 'Discontinued', 'Optical Rib', 'Replacement', and 'Baluster Stem'. Pack extremely well with double-boxing to ensure safe arrival.