Hanowa 17 Rubis Vintage Gold-Plated Mechanical Dress Watch
Watch · Yellow Gold
Purity: Gold-Plated or Gold-Filled, typically equivalent to 10K to 14K external layer thickness (fineness not solid gold)
Type
Watch
Purity
Gold-Plated or Gold-Filled, typically equivalent to 10K to 14K external layer thickness (fineness not solid gold)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold
Weight
Estimated total weight 25 to 35 grams including movement and crystal, with a very minor gold metal content
Description
A charming vintage Hanowa mechanical dress watch featuring a round gold-toned case, a sunburst or brushed champagne dial with applied gold hour markers, a date window at the 3 o'clock position, and classic baton hands. The crystal shows noticeable surface scratching and cracks, reflecting its decades of history. Powered by a 17-jewel mechanical movement, this Swiss-made timepiece captures the timeless elegance of mid-20th-century horology.
Key Features
Vintage Hanowa branding with logo, 17 Rubis mechanical movement indicator, date complication, Swiss Made text, applied gold hour markers
Color & Finish
Warm yellow gold tone with a high-polish bezel and brushed dial details
Hallmarks & Stamps
Hanowa logo, Hanowa brand name, 17 Rubis text on dial, Swiss Made at the bottom edge
Dimensions Estimate
Standard vintage men's or unisex watch size, approximately 33mm to 35mm case diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
Contains 17 synthetic rubies used as functional jewel bearings within the mechanical watch movement
Clasp & Closure
Case back snap or screw closure; strap is missing
Chain & Links
Not applicable; watch lugs present for strap attachment
Craftsmanship Details
Traditional Swiss mechanical watch construction featuring an analog dial layout, applied indices, mechanical date wheel, and a plated base-metal case
Authentication Indicators
Authentic dial typography for Hanowa, Swiss Made marking at the base of the dial, 17 Rubis designation typical of vintage Swiss mechanical movements
Origin & Maker
Hanowa (Hanos & W{"a}hli), Switzerland
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1970s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1970s
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war Swiss watchmaking era when mechanical dress watches were everyday essential accessories before the quartz revolution of the 1970s
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. The acrylic crystal has significant surface scratches and hairline cracking. The gold-plated case shows signs of wear, edge rubbing, and patina. The movement is untested and requires servicing.
Value Estimate
Low to moderate collector value, primarily driven by vintage horological interest rather than precious metal melt value, estimated between $50 to $150 depending on mechanical functionality
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with water and moisture due to compromised crystal and aging seals. Clean the case gently with a soft dry cloth. Professional watchmaker servicing recommended for movement restoration.
Similar Items
Vintage mechanical dress watches from Swiss makers such as Tissot, Enicar, Nivada, and Roamer
Interesting Facts
Hanowa was founded in Switzerland in 1963 by Hans Noll, deriving its name from his first and last name. The company later became famous for producing Swiss Military Hanowa watches. The 17 rubis specification refers to synthetic ruby bearings used to reduce friction in the watch gear train.