Vintage HES Quartz Gold-Tone Pocket or Pendant Watch
Pocket Watch / Pendant Watch · Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely brass or steel alloy)
Purity: Gold-Plated or Gold-Toned Base Metal (likely 0.00% solid gold content)
Type
Pocket Watch / Pendant Watch
Purity
Gold-Plated or Gold-Toned Base Metal (likely 0.00% solid gold content)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely brass or steel alloy)
Weight
25 - 40 grams (total item weight including movement and glass)
Description
A circular quartz-driven timepiece featuring a white dial with classic blue Roman numeral indices. The outer case displays a heavy, granular textured finish in a yellow gold tone, suggesting a budget-conscious fashion accessory from the late quartz era.
Key Features
Distinctive HES oval logo; blue Roman numerals; rough-textured 'pebbled' outer casing; quartz precision movement
Color & Finish
Matte, textured brassy yellow gold-tone with substantial patina and surface oxidation
Hallmarks & Stamps
HES logo on dial; likely 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK' or 'BASE METAL' on the case reverse (not visible)
Dimensions Estimate
35mm - 40mm diameter; Standard medium pendant watch size
Gemstones & Inlays
None; printed Roman numerals and center-set crystal/glass face
Clasp & Closure
Hinged case or snap-back; lacks visible fob attachment in image
Chain & Links
N/A - Watch head only; smooth circular bezel construction
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal case with electroplated finish; mass-produced printed dial; standard friction-fit assembly
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: Greenish-brown oxidation, uneven surface texture, and 'Quartz' movement (uncommon in high-karat gold watches of this tier)
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced fashion watch; Movement likely Japanese or Chinese origin; Brand: HES
Era & Period
Modern/Late 20th Century (approx. 1980s-1990s) influenced by Classical Roman design
Age Estimate
Circa 1985–2000; quartz movement and printed dial indicate late 20th-century production
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of timekeeping and the late-20th-century trend of using pocket watch forms as unisex fashion jewelry pendants.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface corrosion/oxidation on the gold-tone finish; scattered debris or spotting under the crystal; unknown mechanical state
Value Estimate
Minimal; primarily novelty or sentimental value. Market value: $5 - $20 USD. Gold melt value: $0.00.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and chemicals; use a dry soft cloth for cleaning; battery replacement required for function; professional polishing not recommended as it may remove the remaining plating.
Similar Items
Timex Quartz pocket watches, Seiko gold-tone pendants, or unbranded 'gift shop' novelty timepieces.
Interesting Facts
The 'Quartz Crisis' of the 1970s and 80s made accurate timekeeping affordable for everyone, leading to a boom in gold-plated fashion watches like this one.