Vintage Omikron Elephant Logo Gold-Plated Watch Case
Watch Case (Wristwatch component) · Yellow Gold (classic warm tone) plating over a non-precious base metal alloy.
Purity: Non-solid gold; high-quality gold plating (likely 10-20 microns). The case contains zero internal gold value as it is 'Gold Plated' onto base metal.
Type
Watch Case (Wristwatch component)
Purity
Non-solid gold; high-quality gold plating (likely 10-20 microns). The case contains zero internal gold value as it is 'Gold Plated' onto base metal.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (classic warm tone) plating over a non-precious base metal alloy.
Weight
35-45 grams (total weight including base metal and steel back). Gold content is negligible.
Description
A vintage Swiss watch case from Omikron featuring the iconic elephant and star medallion on the case back. This piece represents the 'workhorse' era of Swiss watchmaking before the quartz crisis.
Key Features
Distinctive elephant and star logo medallion; 'Waterprotected' and 'Shockprotected' designations common for that era; large winding crown stem.
Color & Finish
Worn warm yellow gold finish with significant brassing; the stainless steel case back has a brushed and polished concentric finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK', 'WATERPROTECTED', 'SHOCKPROTECTED', 'SWISS MADE WATCH', and serial number '4176'. Omikron logo featuring an elephant and star.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 34mm to 36mm diameter (excluding crown), standard mid-century men's size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The focus is on the mechanical utility and embossed logo.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-down or pressure-fit stainless steel case back with notch openings for a case wrench.
Chain & Links
N/A; Watch lugs designed for a 18mm or 19mm leather strap or metal bracelet.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial Swiss production. The medallion is likely stamped/pressed into the steel. The plating was originally thick enough for daily wear over several years.
Authentication Indicators
The 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK' stamp is a primary indicator that the rest of the case is NOT solid gold. Authentic Omikron elephant engraving is deep and sharp.
Origin & Maker
Swiss Made by Omikron (Gustave Homberger). Omikron was known for supplying watches to military forces and the Eastern European market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s to 1960s); typical of the post-war mechanical watch boom.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1965 based on the case shape, font style, and serial number placement.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of Swiss watch movements during the 20th century, providing 'Swiss Made' precision to the middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant 'brassing' where gold plating has worn away to reveal base metal on the lugs. Scratches on the steel back and a missing crown head.
Value Estimate
Low market value ($20-$50). The value is in the parts for a collector; it has zero 'melt' value as there is no recoverable solid gold.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and chemicals as the 'Waterprotected' seals are likely dry-rotted. Do not polish aggressively as it will remove the remaining thin gold plating.
Similar Items
Vintage Longines, Omega, or Tissot gold-capped watches. Unlike Omikron, these brands may use 'Gold Filled' which is thicker than plating.
Interesting Facts
Omikron used the elephant logo to symbolize strength and reliability; they were particularly famous for providing robust watches for railway workers and the Yugoslavian military.