Vintage Gold-Plated or Base Metal Wristwatch with Stainless Steel Back
Watch (Wristwatch) · Yellow Gold plating or tone; likely a thin micron-layer of gold over a non-precious alloy.
Purity: None - Base metal/Gold-plated. The case back is clearly marked STAINLESS STEEL BACK, indicating the main body is likely gold-plated base metal (brass/steel) rather than solid gold.
Type
Watch (Wristwatch)
Purity
None - Base metal/Gold-plated. The case back is clearly marked STAINLESS STEEL BACK, indicating the main body is likely gold-plated base metal (brass/steel) rather than solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating or tone; likely a thin micron-layer of gold over a non-precious alloy.
Weight
35-50 grams (total watch weight including movement and leather strap). The gold content is negligible (less than 0.1g).
Description
A vintage mechanical wristwatch featuring a gold-toned midcase and a screw-down stainless steel case back. The watch displays characteristic mid-century utilitarian design with a focus on 'Shock and Waterproof' features common in post-war horology. The lugs show visible wear-through of the plating, revealing the base metal beneath.
Key Features
Screw-down case back with notches for a Jaxa wrench, shock resistance, and a distinct geometric center logo.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold tone on the lugs/bezel with significant wear; circular brushed finish on the stainless steel case back.
Hallmarks & Stamps
STAINLESS STEEL BACK, SHOCK & WATERPROOF. A central star-like geometric logo is present, likely representing the manufacturer.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 32-34mm diameter excluding crown; 18mm lug width.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; standard acrylic or mineral glass crystal on the front.
Clasp & Closure
Standard tang buckle on a black leather strap (not pictured but strap ends are visible).
Chain & Links
N/A - Leather strap attached via spring bars.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast base metal case with electroplated finish; standard industrial machine-stamped case back.
Authentication Indicators
The stamp 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK' is a key indicator that the watch is NOT solid gold. Solid gold watches usually have gold case backs with hallmarks (14K, 18K, 0.750).
Origin & Maker
Likely Swiss or European entry-level brand. The star logo is reminiscent of brands like Zenith or Wittnauer, though not a perfect match for primary logos.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1940s to early 1960s). Indicators include the manual wind crown and shock/waterproof branding style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of timekeeping in the mid-20th century, where gold-toned styling was made accessible to the middle class through plating technologies.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant plating loss on the lugs and bezel. Scratches on the case back and crystal. Grime buildup near the case/back interface.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00. Market Value: $20-$75 depending on movement functionality and brand identification.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all water contact despite the 'waterproof' claim; gaskets have likely perished. Wipe with a dry cloth only. Do not use gold polishing compounds on plated items as it will remove the remaining gold.
Similar Items
Period-correct Bulova, Elgin, or Timex manual-wind gold-plated watches.
Interesting Facts
The 'Waterproof' designation was later changed to 'Water Resistant' in many regions following FTC guidelines in the 1960s to prevent consumer misconceptions.