Vialux Super King Automatic Swiss Watch (Gold-Plated/Stainless Steel)
Watch (Wristwatch, Automatic Mechanical) · Yellow Gold Plated (Electrolytic or Rolled Gold Plate over base metal/steel)
Purity: None (Stainless Steel Caseback with Gold Plating on Case). The case appears to be base metal or steel plated with 10K-20K gold (likely 10-20 microns).
Type
Watch (Wristwatch, Automatic Mechanical)
Purity
None (Stainless Steel Caseback with Gold Plating on Case). The case appears to be base metal or steel plated with 10K-20K gold (likely 10-20 microns).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Plated (Electrolytic or Rolled Gold Plate over base metal/steel)
Weight
50-70 grams total weight (including movement, crystal, and case)
Description
A vintage Swiss-made Vialux automatic wristwatch featuring a stainless steel screw-down caseback and a gold-toned upper case. This 'Super King' or similar era model represents the accessible Swiss mechanical market of the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Incabloc or similar shock protection (labeled 'Supershock'), sunburst Vialux logo, automatic movement, and water-resistant threaded caseback design.
Color & Finish
Brushed and polished yellow gold finish on the lugs; high-polish stainless steel finish on the caseback. Significant surface scratches and patina consistent with age.
Hallmarks & Stamps
VIALUX SWISS center logo, AUTOMATIC, SUPERSHOCK, WATERRESISTANT, STAINLESS STEEL BACK, model/serial 2800-13.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approx 34mm - 36mm (standard vintage men's size); lug width approx 18mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on caseback; likely features synthetic rubies (jewels) within the internal movement.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-down notched caseback (requires a Jaxa-style wrench to open).
Chain & Links
Standard integrated or detachable lug system; band not shown in image.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial Swiss assembly; stamped stainless steel caseback; machined case with applied gold plating; expected standard precision for a mid-market 1970s mechanical watch.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font depth and alignment of Swiss markings; legitimate model number 2800-13; age-appropriate wear and caseback geometry.
Origin & Maker
Swiss Made; Vialux (Vialux Biel/Bienne, Switzerland).
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to late 1970s (Stylistic indicators: 'SuperShock' branding and bold case geometry).
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1975.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of Swiss horology before the 'Quartz Crisis' shifted the industry toward luxury-only mechanical watches.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Notable micro-marring and scratches on the stainless steel; visible wear to the gold plating on the lug edges where the base metal is beginning to show through (brassing). Grade: Good (Vintage).
Value Estimate
Value is primarily as a collectible timepiece rather than gold content. Estimated market value $50-$150 USD depending on the dial condition and movement functionality. Melt value is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from water (vintage seals are likely failed); avoid magnetic fields; professional service every 5 years to lubricate the automatic movement. Do not use gold polishing cloths on plated areas as it will strip the gold faster.
Similar Items
Vintage Tissot Visodate, Seiko 5 (7000 series), or vintage Certina Blue Ribbon.
Interesting Facts
Vialux was a popular Swiss 'entry-luxury' brand that gained significant traction in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets during the 1970s for their robust movements and flashy gold-toned designs.