Vintage Citizen Quartz Square Gold-Plated Dress Watch Head
Watch (Dress/Fashion) · Yellow Gold (Plated/Toned)
Purity: Gold-Plated/Base Metal (likely 1 micron or less); no solid gold markers visible
Type
Watch (Dress/Fashion)
Purity
Gold-Plated/Base Metal (likely 1 micron or less); no solid gold markers visible
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Plated/Toned)
Weight
10-15 grams including movement and case
Description
A vintage Citizen Quartz watch head featuring a square case and a unique textured black dial. The dial utilizes gold-tone dot markers and dauphine hands, representing the minimalist dress watch aesthetic popular in the late 20th century.
Key Features
Square tank-style case, textured dial pattern, dauphine hands, and slim Japanese quartz caliber 6031
Color & Finish
Worn pale yellow gold finish with significant base metal exposure, matte black textured dial, and polished gold-tone indices
Hallmarks & Stamps
Citizen Quartz logo on dial; Japan 6031-G10398 markings on dial bottom; case back (not visible) likely stamped Base Metal or Gold Electroplated
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm x 20mm square case; lug-to-lug length 25mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; Twelve applied gold-tone dot indices on a patterned pyramid-textured dial
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (watch head only; original band missing)
Chain & Links
Not applicable; integrated lug pins for a leather strap or metal mesh band
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced stamped base metal case with electroplated finish; machine-printed dial with applied markers; movement is a standard high-volume assembly
Authentication Indicators
Correct Citizen font and CQ logo; Japan-made movement markings; plating wear is consistent with a base-metal commercial watch
Origin & Maker
Japan; Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.
Era & Period
Modernist / late 20th Century (1980s-1990s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995 based on movement caliber and square tank design
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from luxury mechanical timepieces to affordable, gold-look quartz fashion accessories for the emerging professional class of the 80s.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair condition; heavy surface abrasion and significant plating loss (brassing) on the case edges exposing base metal; debris under crystal
Value Estimate
Minimal ($5 - $20 USD); value is purely for parts or sentimental interest as the gold content is negligible and condition is worn
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid water as seals are likely degraded; requires 364/SR621SW battery replacement; do not use jewelry dips on plated surfaces
Similar Items
Seiko Tank-style quartz watches, vintage Bulova quartz dress watches, or gold-plated Longines models
Interesting Facts
The 6031 movement was an extremely reliable, mass-produced Japanese quartz engine that helped Citizen become a global leader in timekeeping during the 'Quartz Crisis' aftermath.