Vintage Duward King Gold-Plated Mechanical Wristwatch
Watch (Mechanical Wristwatch) · Yellow Gold (classic warm tone with brassy undertones characteristic of vintage plating)
Purity: Likely 10-20 Micron Gold Plating; not solid gold. Surface indicates a base metal (likely brass or steel) coated in a layer of gold equivalent to approximately 41.7% to 75% purity in the shell only.
Type
Watch (Mechanical Wristwatch)
Purity
Likely 10-20 Micron Gold Plating; not solid gold. Surface indicates a base metal (likely brass or steel) coated in a layer of gold equivalent to approximately 41.7% to 75% purity in the shell only.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (classic warm tone with brassy undertones characteristic of vintage plating)
Weight
45-60 grams total (including movement), with negligible gold weight due to plating thickness.
Description
A classic mid-century Duward King wristwatch featuring a refined champagne dial with a distinctive crosshair pattern. The gold-plated case houses a mechanical manual-wind movement, typical of the era's dress watches. Despite visible wear, the piece retains the elegant, slim profile favored during the 1960s, paired with a period-correct flex-style expansion bracelet.
Key Features
Crosshair dial design, 'King' model designation, applied vintage numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9, and tapered lugs.
Color & Finish
Brassy yellow gold with a high-polish bezel and brushed/textured expansion band. Significant patina and 'brassing' (wear-through) visible on sharp edges and lugs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect 'Plaque G' or 'Gold Filled' markings between lugs or on the case back; dial is marked 'DUWARD' and 'KING'.
Dimensions Estimate
34-36mm case diameter (excluding crown), 18mm lug width, standard men's mid-century size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a champagne-toned sunburst dial with applied gold-tone baton and Arabic numeral markers.
Clasp & Closure
Expansion/Stretch link bracelet; no dedicated clasp. The band is a typical mid-century aftermarket or matching flexible metal strap.
Chain & Links
Two-tone expansion links with horizontal ribbing; internal stainless steel springs with gold-plated decorative caps.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-production quality of the 1960s; features a stamped case and applied markers with a basic manual-wind caliber.
Authentication Indicators
Correct dial typography for the Duward brand; period-correct movement ticking; wear patterns reveal base metal under gold plate, confirming it is not solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Duward (Spanish brand using Swiss movements); likely manufactured in Spain or Switzerland.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s - 1960s). Stylistic indicators include the domed acrylic crystal and crosshair dial design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1965.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in affordable luxury, where gold plating allowed the middle class to wear watches that emulated the look of solid gold Swiss dress pieces.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible scratches on the acrylic crystal, significant plating wear on the lugs (exposing base metal), and dial spotting/oxidation. Case shows moderate age-related dings.
Value Estimate
Retail/Collector Value: $80 - $150 USD. Value is driven by vintage aesthetic and brand history rather than gold content, which is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all water exposure due to aged gaskets; clean with a soft dry cloth only; do not use ultrasonic cleaners as it may strip remaining plating or damage the movement; requires professional mechanical servicing.
Similar Items
Vintage Omega Seamaster (Solid 14k/18k), Vintage Longines Flagship, or contemporary gold-tone Seiko dress watches.
Interesting Facts
Duward was a prominent brand in Spain throughout the 20th century, often sourcing high-quality Swiss movements to compete with more expensive luxury houses.