Vintage Gold-Plated Harley Ronda Quartz Pocket Watch Movement in Open Case
Pocket Watch (Quartz Movement and Case Body) · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy. The underlying metal displays a duller, oxidized brassy tone where the plating has worn.
Purity: Gold-Plated / Base Metal. Not solid gold. The visual greenish-brown patina and surface wear indicate a thin gold layer over a base metal such as brass or bronze.
Type
Pocket Watch (Quartz Movement and Case Body)
Purity
Gold-Plated / Base Metal. Not solid gold. The visual greenish-brown patina and surface wear indicate a thin gold layer over a base metal such as brass or bronze.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy. The underlying metal displays a duller, oxidized brassy tone where the plating has worn.
Weight
35-50 grams inclusive of movement and battery. The gold content itself is negligible (less than 0.1g) as it is surface plating.
Description
This is a vintage quartz pocket watch featuring a Swiss-parts Harley Ronda movement. The watch is shown with its snap-back case removed, revealing a modern electronic movement powered by a button cell battery. The exterior case body displays characteristic 'brassing' where the gold plating has oxidized and worn away, giving it a dark, antique-like patina that is actually the result of base-metal degradation.
Key Features
Harley 375 caliber movement, 6-jewel quartz construction, MB101 IC chip, silver-tone bow contrasting with gold-tone case, and a standard snap-back design.
Color & Finish
Dulled yellow gold finish with significant oxidation and patina. The case shows a brushed or matte texture from age and wear; the interior of the case back shows a satin finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Movement stamps: 'Harley', 'Six 6 Jewels', 'Unadj. Swiss', '375' (referring to the Harley 375 quartz movement caliber, not 9K gold purity). Case typically has no precious metal hallmarks.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approximately 40-45mm. Standard pocket watch thickness of 8-10mm. Bow diameter approx 10mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones. The movement contains 6 functional synthetic ruby jewels used for mechanical pivot points.
Clasp & Closure
Friction-fit snap case back (shown open). The crown (winding/setting knob) is located at the 12 o'clock position with a simple circular bow for a chain.
Chain & Links
No chain present. Edge of the case is smooth and rounded; the 'bow' (the loop at top) is a simple horseshoe shape.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast case with electroplated finish. The movement is a hybrid of metal plates and plastic electronic housing, typical of mid-tier quartz production.
Authentication Indicators
The '375' stamp on the movement is a caliber number, often mistaken for 9K gold (375 fineness). Red flags for solid gold include the greenish oxidation and the silver-toned bow metal showing through.
Origin & Maker
Movement made by Ronda (Harley line) in Switzerland; case likely manufactured in Hong Kong or Europe for a fashion brand (e.g., Jean Cardot, Lucerne, or similar).
Era & Period
Modern/Late 20th Century (1980s - 1990s). The use of the Harley 375 quartz movement by Ronda indicates this period when quartz technology miniaturized and became mass-market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1995 based on the specific MB101 integrated circuit and Harley 375 movement architecture.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of the pocket watch from a precision mechanical tool to a novelty or fashion accessory during the mid-to-late 20th century quartz boom.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface oxidation and tarnish on the case. The battery appears old and potentially leaked. The plating is heavily worn on high-friction areas. Case back is detached.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25. The value is almost entirely in the movement parts or as a repair project; there is no scrap gold value as the item is plated base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners as the case is not water-resistant and the plating is thin. Remove the battery immediately to prevent acid damage to the movement.
Similar Items
Modern Seiko quartz pocket watches, 1980s Westclox quartz, or entry-level Swiss quartz brands like Tissot (though higher quality).
Interesting Facts
The 'Harley' brand was a line of high-quality quartz movements produced by Ronda SA to compete with Japanese movements during the Quartz Crisis.