Lincoln Quartz Gold-Tone Roman Numeral Pocket Watch with Date Window
Pocket Watch (Open-Face Quartz) · Yellow Gold finish. The alloy used for the plating provides a classic warm yellow tone, common in mid-range 1980s-90s accessory items.
Purity: Gold-Tone Plated (Non-Solid Gold). Likely base metal such as brass with a thin decorative gold-colored electroplated finish, typically measuring less than 0.5 microns.
Type
Pocket Watch (Open-Face Quartz)
Purity
Gold-Tone Plated (Non-Solid Gold). Likely base metal such as brass with a thin decorative gold-colored electroplated finish, typically measuring less than 0.5 microns.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish. The alloy used for the plating provides a classic warm yellow tone, common in mid-range 1980s-90s accessory items.
Weight
Estimated 45 to 65 grams. The majority of this weight is attributed to the internal quartz movement, the glass crystal, and the base metal case (brass or steel) rather than precious metal content.
Description
This is a classic-style open-face 'Lincoln' quartz pocket watch. It features a champagne-toned dial with black Roman numeral markers and a date aperture. While it mimics the aesthetic of high-end vintage 18K gold watches, it is a functional modern timepiece built for durability and everyday use rather than for investment-grade gold content. The hands are slender leaf-style, and the dial has a fine textured finish that catches the light horizontally.
Key Features
Roman numeral indices, date function window, 'Lincoln' branding, and a battery-operated quartz movement which provides superior timekeeping accuracy over mechanical counterparts.
Color & Finish
Matte to satin finish on the dial with a polished case. Significant surface oxidation and patina are visible on the outer case, suggesting the plating is wearing thin and the underlying base metal is reacting to the atmosphere.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible precious metal hallmarks (e.g., 14K, 585) on the dial. Case-back likely contains stamps such as 'Base Metal Bezel', 'Stainless Steel Back', or 'Japan Movt'. Brand name 'Lincoln' and 'Quartz' are printed on the dial.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 42mm to 45mm in diameter (standard pocket watch size). Thickness estimated at 8mm to 10mm. Bow diameter roughly 15mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item features decorative printed Roman numerals and a metallic texture on the dial face rather than gemstones or inlays.
Clasp & Closure
Bow and crown assembly. The bow (the ring at the top) is a simple rounded style for chain attachment, and the fluted crown is used for time adjustment. No traditional jewelry clasp is present.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; chain is missing. The winding stem and crown show standard vertical fluting. The ring (bow) appears to be a separate silver-toned or worn metal, suggesting it may be a replacement or has lost its plating.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial assembly. Stamped metal case with a snap-on back. The dial is likely printed via pad-printing technology. Reliable but utilitarian construction standard for the quartz fashion watch era.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the visible discoloration on the bow and crown area, the 'Quartz' designation (rarely found in high-carat solid gold pocket watches), and the lack of a prominent K-rating on the dial face.
Origin & Maker
Lincoln brand, likely a Japanese or Hong Kong-based manufacturer for the 'Lincoln' private label. These were common gift-ware items sold in department stores or through corporate incentive programs.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (late 20th century). The use of a quartz movement and the specific typography of the 'Lincoln' brand suggest a production period between 1985 and 1995.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990. The dial design language, the style of the date window at the 3 o'clock position (marked IV here), and the quartz movement indicate a late 20th-century origin.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of the pocket watch style. Once a symbol of the elite in solid gold, the late 20th century transformed these into affordable accessories and retirement gifts for the working class.
Condition Notes
Grade: Fair to Good. Visible wear and rubbing on the gold plating, particularly around the bezel. The bow shows significant metal wear/discoloration (plating loss). The crystal appears to have minor surface scratches consistent with use.
Value Estimate
Market Value: $15 - $35 USD. The value resides in its utility and aesthetic rather than metal content. Melt value is negligible (nearly zero), as the item is primarily base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and chemicals as these will accelerate the chipping of the gold-tone plating. Clean only with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Batteries should be replaced every 1-2 years to prevent acid leakage which can destroy the movement.
Similar Items
Timex quartz pocket watches, Colibri gold-plated lighters/watches, or Westclox gold-tone pocket watches. These differ from solid gold Hamilton or Waltham vintage pieces which contain significant bullion value.
Interesting Facts
The brand 'Lincoln' was often used for promotional watches or as a mid-tier brand in North American department stores during the 'Quartz Crisis' aftermath, when electronic watches became more popular than traditional mechanical ones.