Gold-Plated Swiss Made Vintage Wristwatch Case with Stainless Steel Back
Watch · Yellow Gold Plated
Purity: Gold Plated or Gold Filled (Base metal core with a thin layer of gold)
Type
Watch
Purity
Gold Plated or Gold Filled (Base metal core with a thin layer of gold)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Plated
Weight
Estimated lightweight construction, approximately 10 to 30 grams total watch weight depending on movement and crystal
Description
This is a vintage Swiss-made wristwatch case showing heavy signs of age and wear. The back of the case is constructed from stainless steel and features distinct vertical brushing, stamped with production markings including SWISS MADE, STAINLESS STEEL BACK, and the model or serial number 110.12. The bezel and surrounding housing are finished in a yellow gold plating, which shows significant degradation, pitting, and brassing where the base metal has become exposed through the worn gold layer.
Key Features
Swiss movement heritage, stainless steel snap-back construction, engraved reference number 110.12, classic round vintage dress watch profile
Color & Finish
Warm yellow gold tone with visible wear, tarnishing, and flaking revealing the base metal underneath; brushed stainless steel back plate with engraved text
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved text on the case back reads SWISS MADE, STAINLESS STEEL BACK, and reference number 110.12
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated case diameter of 30mm to 36mm, standard vintage dress watch proportions
Gemstones & Inlays
None present
Clasp & Closure
Press-fit or snap-on stainless steel case back
Chain & Links
Not applicable; lacks strap or bracelet attachment
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced vintage watch manufacturing, utilizing base metal stamping and electroplating for the bezel alongside precision-milled stainless steel for the case back
Authentication Indicators
The 'SWISS MADE' and 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK' stamps are standard nomenclature for vintage Swiss timepieces. The flaking of the gold layer to reveal a dull gray or brassy base metal definitively indicates gold plating rather than solid gold construction.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland (indicated by Swiss Made stamp)
Era & Period
Vintage mid-20th century, likely 1960s-1980s based on typography and construction style
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1980s
Cultural Significance
Represents the accessible luxury and horological ubiquity of Swiss timepieces during the mid-century era, where wristwatches transitioned from delicate luxury items to everyday utilitarian accessories.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. Heavy surface wear, extensive loss of gold plating around the bezel edges, exposing the underlying base metal. Scratches and scuffs across the stainless steel back. Watch movement, crystal, crown, and strap are entirely missing.
Value Estimate
Low scrap or nominal value. The gold content is negligible due to the thinness of the plating, and the item lacks a movement, dial, crystal, and strap, rendering it primarily useful as a spare parts donor or for watch repair hobbyists
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft dry cloth to remove surface oils; avoid harsh chemical dips or abrasive polishing which will completely remove the remaining fragile gold plating
Similar Items
Other vintage Swiss dress watches from brands such as Tissot, Omega, or Enicar featuring gold-plated bezels and stainless steel screw-down or snap-on case backs
Interesting Facts
During the mid-20th century, Swiss watchmaking dominated the global market, producing millions of affordable gold-plated dress watches utilizing reliable mechanical movements housed in base-metal cases with steel backs to reduce costs while maintaining an elegant appearance.