Omega Swiss Fabrication Suisse Pocket Watch Case Back, Serial 8363044
Watch Case Back (Pocket Watch Component) · Yellow Gold Tone with heavy oxidation/tarnish; original alloy appears to be a standard yellow gold hue commonly used by Swiss manufacturers.
Purity: Unknown/Visual Indicator Only; likely Gold-Filled or Base Metal with patination. No clear Karat stamp (e.g., 14K, 18K) is visible in the provided frame, though Omega produced many gold-filled cases marked 'Gold Filled' or '20 Microns'.
Type
Watch Case Back (Pocket Watch Component)
Purity
Unknown/Visual Indicator Only; likely Gold-Filled or Base Metal with patination. No clear Karat stamp (e.g., 14K, 18K) is visible in the provided frame, though Omega produced many gold-filled cases marked 'Gold Filled' or '20 Microns'.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Tone with heavy oxidation/tarnish; original alloy appears to be a standard yellow gold hue commonly used by Swiss manufacturers.
Weight
5 to 12 grams for the case back alone, depending on specific thickness and solid vs. plated composition.
Description
An authentic interior view of an Omega pocket watch case back. The centerpiece features the iconic Omega logo surrounded by official Swiss fabrication stamps. The surface shows a beautiful concentric 'perlage' or engine-turned finish designed to hide scratches and trap dust within the watch movement housing. Multiple hand-etched service marks indicate a history of professional maintenance by horologists over several decades.
Key Features
Official Omega 'Fabrication Suisse' stamp; unique 7-digit serial number; indicative watchmaker's 'scribble' marks used for tracking service history.
Color & Finish
Tarnished gold-tone with circular engine-turned (perlage) interior finish. Significant iridescent oxidation/patina covering the central surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Omega Greek letter logo inside a double circle; 'FABRICATION SUISSE' and 'SWISS MADE' circular text; Serial Number 8363044; Hand-scratched watchmaker service marks on the left periphery.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 40mm to 48mm in diameter, typical for a standard size pocket watch of the mid-20th century.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; standard interior mechanical housing surface.
Clasp & Closure
Snap-on or hinge-style case back (hinge mechanism not visible in crop).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the case would traditionally be paired with a curb or cable link pocket watch fob.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision stamping of the logo; decorative engine-turning (perlage) applied to the interior surface to provide a high-end finish to the hidden parts of the watch.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment and font of the Omega logo; the distinctive '83' serial prefix consistent with pre-WWII production; presence of traditional hand-scratched service codes common in genuine vintage timepieces.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Omega Watch Co. (Bienne, Switzerland).
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Vintage Swiss Horology (circa 1930s-1940s based on serial range).
Age Estimate
Circa 1934-1939. Based on Omega's serial number archives, the 8-million range corresponds to the late 1930s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the era when pocket watches transitioned from essential tools to heirlooms, manufactured by one of the world's most prestigious Swiss brands.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows significant surface oxidation and 'rainbow' tarnish. Interior reflects signs of historical servicing but no major structural dents or warping.
Value Estimate
As a component: $50 - $150 USD. If solid gold, value increases to current melt weight (approx. $300-$600). Value is primarily in the brand heritage and potential for restoration.
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid chemical dips that could strip plating; keep in a low-humidity environment to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Tissot or Longines pocket watch cases from the same era; often found in 'Staybrite' steel or 14K solid gold versions.
Interesting Facts
The 'Fabrication Suisse' mark was specifically used to denote Swiss origin for international trade compliance, particularly for watches intended for the French market.