Vintage Omikron Swiss Watch Case with 20-Micron Gold Plating
Watch (Case only, missing movement/crystal) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed for durability in plating)
Purity: Gold-Plated/Gold-Filled (Non-Solid). Typically 10K-14K gold layer over base metal.
Type
Watch (Case only, missing movement/crystal)
Purity
Gold-Plated/Gold-Filled (Non-Solid). Typically 10K-14K gold layer over base metal.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed for durability in plating)
Weight
35-45 grams (Total case weight including stainless steel back)
Description
A heritage Omikron watch case featuring the iconic elephant logo on a screw-down stainless steel back. The upper case is gold-plated, showing heavy character-adding wear common in vintage field or pilots' style Swiss timepieces.
Key Features
Omikron Elephant medallion, specialized lug shape, screw-back 'Waterprotected' case engineering.
Color & Finish
Worn yellow gold finish with significant brassing; matte stainless steel case back.
Hallmarks & Stamps
STAINLESS STEEL BACK, WATERPROTECTED, SHOCKPROTECTED, SWISS MADE WATCH, 4176, Omikron Logo (Elephant)
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 36mm-38mm diameter; 20mm lug width
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible
Clasp & Closure
Screw-down notched stainless steel case back
Chain & Links
Standard curved lugs for spring bar attachment
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped stainless steel back with high-relief logo; die-cast base metal mid-case with electroplated finish.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period-correct stamps; wear patterns reveal base metal consistent with 20-micron plating rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Swiss; Omikron (Gustave Homberger)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s - 1960s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1965
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom of reliable Swiss 'tool' watches accessible to the working middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss (brassing) on lugs, missing crystal, missing movement, and crown stem is exposed/detached.
Value Estimate
$10 - $30 (Primarily for parts or restoration; negligible gold melt value due to thin plating).
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from moisture (seal is likely compromised); do not polish as it will remove remaining gold plating.
Similar Items
Vintage Atlantic, Roamer, or Certina watches from the same era.
Interesting Facts
Omikron was a prominent supplier of watches to various European military and railway organizations during the mid-20th century.