Vintage Aretta Antimagnetic Gold-Plated Swiss Wristwatch Head
Watch (Wristwatch Head Only) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper and silver for a traditional warm tone)
Purity: Gold Plated (likely 10-20 microns). This is not solid gold, but a base metal case with a thin layer of gold chemically bonded to the surface.
Type
Watch (Wristwatch Head Only)
Purity
Gold Plated (likely 10-20 microns). This is not solid gold, but a base metal case with a thin layer of gold chemically bonded to the surface.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper and silver for a traditional warm tone)
Weight
25-30 grams (including movement and crystal); gold content is negligible (less than 0.1g)
Description
A classic example of mid-century Swiss horology, this Aretta timepiece features a sunburst champagne dial, dauphine hands, and a gold-plated case with elongated lugs. Despite its wear, it represents the era's transition toward reliable, everyday mechanical watches.
Key Features
Incabloc/Antimagnetic protection, star logo above the brand name, and distinctive sword-shaped 'Dauphine' hands.
Color & Finish
Worn warm yellow gold finish with significant oxidation and brassing; surface shows a scratched acrylic crystal and matte patina on the lugs
Hallmarks & Stamps
Labeled 'Swiss Model' on the dial; likely stamped 'Fond Acier Inoxydable' (stainless steel back) or 'Plaqué Or G' (gold plated) on the case back
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approximately 33-35mm (excluding crown); lug width approximately 18mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features applied gold-tone Arabic numerals and arrowhead indices
Clasp & Closure
Missing (head only); requires an 18mm strap with a buckle or expansion band
Chain & Links
N/A - Watch head only with traditional drilled spring-bar lugs
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed dial with applied indices; screw-down or snap-on case back; movement likely a 17-jewel manual wind Swiss caliber.
Authentication Indicators
Dial printing is consistent with 1950s Swiss production; wear patterns on lugs reveal base metal (likely brass) beneath the gold plating.
Origin & Maker
Swiss origin; Aretta (a brand typically associated with the Italian market using Swiss movements)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1940s-1950s). Characterized by the 'Antimagnetic' designation and dauphine-style hands.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1955 based on the dial typography and case shape
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of Swiss watches in the mid-20th century, moving high-quality timekeeping from a luxury to an accessible necessity.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. Significant plating wear (brassing) on lugs and crown; heavily scratched acrylic crystal; dial shows spotting/oxidation (patina).
Value Estimate
Collector/Market Value: $40-$80 USD. Value is based on the movement and brand history; gold value is zero as it is plated.
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from moisture (not water-resistant); clean with a dry microfiber cloth; requires a professional mechanical service (cleaning/oiling) every 5 years.
Similar Items
Vintage Tissot Visodate, Omega Seamaster (Gold-Capped), or Longines Conquest models of the same era.
Interesting Facts
Aretta was a popular brand in Southern Europe during the 50s; 'Antimagnetic' was a major selling point in the post-WWII era to protect movements from electronic interference.