Raymond Weil 18K Gold Electroplated Quartz Dress Watch Ref. 5507
Watch · Yellow Gold Electroplated (warm yellow tone with a base metal or stainless steel substructure)
Purity: 18K Gold Electroplated (signifying a thin layer of 18K gold over a base metal core, typically brass or stainless steel, with 750 parts per thousand gold purity in the plating material)
Type
Watch
Purity
18K Gold Electroplated (signifying a thin layer of 18K gold over a base metal core, typically brass or stainless steel, with 750 parts per thousand gold purity in the plating material)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Electroplated (warm yellow tone with a base metal or stainless steel substructure)
Weight
Estimated total weight of approximately 30 to 45 grams including movement, crystal, and leather strap; the actual gold content weight is negligible due to the electroplated nature of the case
Description
A classic vintage Raymond Weil dress wristwatch featuring a round gold electroplated case back. The back is clearly stamped with the maker's branding, 18K gold electroplating specifications, water resistance notes, and individual reference numbers. Designed as an elegant, slim dress watch, it pairs Swiss horological heritage with accessible luxury styling characteristic of the late 20th century.
Key Features
Prominent case back engravings including the 10-micron (10M) gold plating thickness indicator, Raymond Weil maker's mark, and reference number 5507, showcasing authentic Swiss manufacture details
Color & Finish
High polish warm yellow gold finish on the case back with visible surface scratches, hairline scuffs, and minor verdigris/tarnish accumulation around the edges near the strap attachments
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped on the case back with the Raymond Weil brand logo, '18K GOLD ELECTROPLATED', 'WATERRESISTANT', '10M' indicating a 10-micron plating thickness, a hallmark symbol, and the model/serial number combination '5507'
Dimensions Estimate
Standard men's dress watch size with an approximate case diameter of 33mm to 35mm, slim profile thickness of around 6mm to 8mm, and standard 18mm lug width for the leather strap
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones or inlays present; features a clean minimalist case back typical of vintage Swiss dress timepieces
Clasp & Closure
Fitted with a standard black leather strap featuring a matching gold-tone pin buckle
Chain & Links
Not applicable; paired with a two-piece black textured leather strap secured by spring bars
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial Swiss watch manufacturing utilizing stamped base metal cases finished with a protective electroplated gold layer, designed for aesthetic appeal, reliable quartz timekeeping, and lightweight daily comfort
Authentication Indicators
Consistent factory-stamped typography on the case back, correct brand logo styling, precise model numbering format (5507), and standard Swiss electroplating depth markings (10M), though professional inspection of the movement is recommended for absolute verification
Origin & Maker
Switzerland, manufactured by Raymond Weil, a renowned independent Swiss watchmaker established in Geneva in 1976
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Quartz Crisis Era (circa 1980s to 1990s), identifiable by the quartz movement indicators, styling, and standard electroplating nomenclature of the period
Age Estimate
Circa 1980s to 1990s based on the typography, model numbering conventions, and general wear characteristics
Cultural Significance
Gold electroplated dress watches from makers like Raymond Weil served as quintessential status symbols for professionals in the 1980s and 1990s, offering the prestigious look of solid gold luxury without the prohibitive price tag
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The case back exhibits moderate surface scratching, scuffing, and minor pitting or green verdigris buildup around the perimeter joints, which is common in older gold-plated watches exposed to moisture and wear over decades
Value Estimate
Modest secondary market value ranging from $50 to $150 USD, dependent heavily on the working condition of the internal quartz movement, the condition of the dial and crystal on the front, and the state of the leather strap, as the intrinsic gold melt value is near zero due to the electroplated construction
Care & Maintenance
Avoid exposure to water, harsh chemicals, perfumes, and excessive perspiration to prevent further wear of the thin 18K gold electroplate layer. Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Similar Items
Comparable vintage quartz dress watches from Swiss brands such as Tissot, Omega (De Ville lines), Longines, and Movado featuring gold-plated or gold-filled cases
Interesting Facts
Raymond Weil was founded during the height of the Quartz Crisis in 1976, a time when traditional Swiss watchmakers struggled against cheap electronic competition, yet the brand successfully carved out a niche by offering refined, elegant, and accessible luxury timepieces