Vintage Elida Swiss Gold-Plated TV-Dial Wristwatch
Watch (Mechanical/Automatic) · Yellow Gold tone plated over base metal (likely brass or stainless steel).
Purity: Gold-Plated (likely 10K-20K plating). Not solid gold, based on visible surface wear and oxidation patterns showing base metal underneath.
Type
Watch (Mechanical/Automatic)
Purity
Gold-Plated (likely 10K-20K plating). Not solid gold, based on visible surface wear and oxidation patterns showing base metal underneath.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold tone plated over base metal (likely brass or stainless steel).
Weight
60 to 80 grams (total watch weight including movement and crystal).
Description
This vintage Elida timepiece features a striking blue sunburst dial housed in a classic 1970s 'TV-screen' cushion-shaped gold-plated case. The watch embodies the bold, geometric design language of the early 70s, featuring a red seconds hand for high contrast and a magnified-style date window. The integrated bracelet provides a seamless look that transitions from the chunky gold case to the wrist.
Key Features
Unique 'TV-Dial' cushion case; vibrant blue sunburst dial; Swiss mechanical movement; era-specific red sweep seconds hand.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold color with a high-polish finish on the bezel and brushed finish on the integrated-style bracelet links. Significant patina and 'brassing' present on edges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'SWISS' or 'SWISS MADE' at the bottom of the dial. Back of the case likely stamped 'Gold Electroplated' or 'Stainless Steel Back'. No visible karat hallmark in provided image.
Dimensions Estimate
Case width approximately 36-38mm; Lug-to-lug approximately 40mm; Bracelet width 20mm tapering to 18mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Applied gold-tone baton hour markers. Red-tipped seconds hand and a white/red date wheel at 3 o'clock. No precious stones.
Clasp & Closure
Likely a fold-over deployment clasp or a ladder-style sliding clasp common for integrated plated bracelets of this era.
Chain & Links
Integrated-style three-link bracelet with a semi-Presidential or Oyster-style aesthetic; links appear stamped and hollow rather than solid.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced Swiss assembly; stamped metal bracelet; gold electroplating process; standard mechanical movement with date complication.
Authentication Indicators
Period-correct dial printing; Elida branding; Swiss marking; wear patterns showing base metal (typical of gold-plated vintage watches of this tier). Metal is likely magnetic (non-gold) underneath.
Origin & Maker
Swiss-made by Elida. Elida was a mid-tier Swiss brand known for accessible mechanical watches during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Retro/Mid-Century Modern (Late 1960s to mid-1970s) indicated by the 'TV screen' case shape and sunburst blue dial.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1975 based on the cushion-tv case design and dial typography.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Standard' of accessible luxury in the 1970s, where gold-plated Swiss watches were the preferred status symbol for the professional class before the Quartz Crisis.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface scratching on the acrylic crystal. Visible 'pitting' and loss of gold plating on the lugs and bezel. General wear consistent with daily use over several decades.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 USD. Value is primarily in its vintage aesthetic and mechanical movement; gold value is negligible as the item is plated, not solid.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use immersion cleaners; wipe with a damp cloth only. Keep away from water as vintage gaskets are likely dry. Avoid polishing with abrasives as it will remove the remaining gold plating.
Similar Items
Vintage Omega Geneve TV-Dial (higher end), Tissot Visodate (comparable), or Seiko 'TV Dial' 5-series (non-Swiss alternative).
Interesting Facts
The 'TV-Dial' shape became a global trend in the 1970s, popularized by high-end brands like Omega and Patek Philippe (Nautilus), trickling down to mid-tier Swiss brands like Elida.