Vintage Automatic Mechanical Wristwatch with Gold-Plated Case and Dial Accents
Watch · Yellow Gold plating/accents paired with a stainless steel case body
Purity: Gold-plated or gold-filled (typically 10K to 14K equivalent layer thickness over base metal)
Type
Watch
Purity
Gold-plated or gold-filled (typically 10K to 14K equivalent layer thickness over base metal)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating/accents paired with a stainless steel case body
Weight
Estimated total weight 70-90 grams (with majority being base metal case and mechanical movement components; gold content is minimal plating)
Description
A striking vintage automatic mechanical wristwatch featuring a quintessential 1970s cushion-shaped case design with a dramatic gradient sunburst dial. The watch showcases warm yellow gold-toned hands, hour markers, and day-date window frames that contrast against the cool brushed stainless steel housing. Built during an era of bold experimentation in watchmaking, this timepiece embodies the chunky, integrated-bracelet aesthetic highly sought after by vintage watch collectors today.
Key Features
Bold 1970s cushion case geometry, gradient sunburst dial with day-date complication, automatic mechanical movement, integrated metal bracelet
Color & Finish
Silver-tone brushed stainless steel case with polished bezel and warm yellow gold-toned dial accents, hands, and hour markers
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct branding on dial reading 'Vialux' or similar vintage Swiss/Japanese maker, with text indicating automatic movement and jewel count
Dimensions Estimate
Standard men's vintage cushion/round case size approximately 38mm in diameter with integrated steel bracelet
Gemstones & Inlays
None; dial features applied metallic hour markers and a gradient sunburst finish
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over clasp integrated into a stainless steel link bracelet
Chain & Links
Integrated linked metal bracelet with brushed finishing
Craftsmanship Details
Mechanical automatic movement with multiple jewels, applied dial markers, brushed and polished case finishing typical of mid-tier 1970s watchmaking
Authentication Indicators
Dial text markings, movement specifications visible on the face, and period-correct case construction without modern quartz indicators
Origin & Maker
Likely Swiss or Japanese production utilizing third-party Swiss or Asian automatic mechanical movements popular during the 1970s watch boom
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / 1970s Bold Design Era
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1979
Cultural Significance
Reflects the futuristic, bold design ethos of the 1970s space-age and disco era, where oversized watches became prominent fashion accessories
Condition Notes
Moderate vintage wear with surface scratches on the crystal and case bezel consistent with age and daily use. Mechanical functionality requires professional verification.
Value Estimate
Value is primarily driven by horological and collectible interest rather than precious metal content, typically ranging from $50 to $200 depending on mechanical working condition and brand desirability
Care & Maintenance
Avoid exposure to water unless pressure tested; service mechanical movement every 3-5 years; clean stainless steel components with a soft microfiber cloth
Similar Items
Vintage Seiko, Citizen, Bulova, and Tissot automatic watches from the 1970s featuring cushion cases and gradient dials
Interesting Facts
The 1970s mechanical watch market was heavily disrupted by the quartz crisis, making mechanical automatic watches from independent or lesser-known makers of this period fascinating artifacts of a transitioning industry