Gold-Plated Quartz Watch Movement with Cabochon Crown
Watch Movement (Internal Component) · Yellow Gold Plating (likely over brass or nickel)
Purity: N/A - Gold Plated. This is a base metal component with a decorative gold-colored electrochemical deposition of very low gold content.
Type
Watch Movement (Internal Component)
Purity
N/A - Gold Plated. This is a base metal component with a decorative gold-colored electrochemical deposition of very low gold content.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Plating (likely over brass or nickel)
Weight
Total movement weight: 1-2 grams; Gold content: Negligible (less than 0.001g)
Description
An internal quartz watch movement removed from its case. The unit features a gold-toned main bridge plate, a copper coil for driving the motor, and a gold-plated crown fitted with a black rounded cabochon. These units are designed for precision timekeeping using battery power and a vibrating quartz crystal.
Key Features
Gold-plated bridge for aesthetics and corrosion resistance; synthetic cabochon crown; quartz-controlled timing mechanism.
Color & Finish
Yellow brassy gold color with a granular, matte 'stippled' finish on the main plate; the crown features a high-polish gold finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No purity hallmarks visible. Typical markings for this component would be a caliber number or country of origin for the movement, currently obscured by the stippling and battery.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 10mm - 15mm in diameter; petite ladies' watch size movement.
Gemstones & Inlays
Onyx or blue glass cabochon set in the top of the crown; copper wire winding for the movement coil.
Clasp & Closure
None - internal movement component with stem and crown assembly.
Chain & Links
N/A - Internal mechanical structure with gear train pivot points and electronic circuit traces.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped bridge plates; automated coil winding; mass-produced assembly-line construction designed for disposability rather than repair.
Authentication Indicators
The granular texture and 'brassy' hue are classic indicators of gold-plating rather than solid gold. The silver-colored metal showing at the stem thread indicates a base metal core.
Origin & Maker
Likely Japan or Switzerland; typical of mass-produced quartz calibers from Miyota, Seiko, or Ronda.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Present)
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2015 based on the plastic movement spacer and quartz coil design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Quartz Revolution' which made accurate timekeeping accessible to the general public through inexpensive electronic movements.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. The battery displays signs of leakage/corrosion (green verdigris). The movement is detached from its case and shows signs of handle wear.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00. Retail replacement: $10 - $25 for a new movement of similar caliber. This specific item is likely scrap due to corrosion.
Care & Maintenance
Remove the battery immediately to prevent further acid damage. Do not submerge in water; use an electronic contact cleaner if restoration is attempted.
Similar Items
Seiko 1N01 movements, Ronda 700 series movements, or Miyota generic quartz calibers.
Interesting Facts
The 'gold' in quartz movements is often used mainly for corrosion resistance on the electrical contact points rather than for value.