Vintage Aretta Gold-Plated Dress Watch Case
Watch (components) · Yellow Gold tone alloy over base metal
Purity: Gold-Plated / Gold-Tone (Not Solid Gold)
Type
Watch (components)
Purity
Gold-Plated / Gold-Tone (Not Solid Gold)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold tone alloy over base metal
Weight
Total weight approx 15-20g including movement/crystal; gold content is negligible (microns)
Description
A vintage Aretta mechanical watch head featuring a classic mid-century round case. The 'Fond Acier Inoxydable' marking confirms the case back is stainless steel, while the mid-case and lugs are gold-plated base metal. This was a common 'affordable luxury' construction for European dress watches of the era.
Key Features
Distinctive starred 'Aretta' script logo and sharp, angled lugs characteristic of mid-century dress watches.
Color & Finish
Polished yellow gold tone on lugs; brushed/worn stainless steel back
Hallmarks & Stamps
Brand name 'Aretta' with star logo, Serial number 64716, and 'FOND ACIER INOXYDABLE' (Stainless Steel Back)
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approx 33-35mm excluding crown; lug width approx 18mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on case back; standard acrylic or mineral crystal likely on front
Clasp & Closure
Snap-down case back with a notched edge for removal
Chain & Links
Not applicable (watch head only, lugs present for leather strap attachment)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped case back with etched serial numbers; the plating is applied via electroplating over a base metal (likely brass or copper).
Authentication Indicators
Marking 'Fond Acier Inoxydable' is a primary indicator that the case is not solid gold; if it were solid, it would have '18K' or '0.750' hallmarks on the lugs or inside the back.
Origin & Maker
Aretta (Italian brand utilizing Swiss or French components)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s to early 1960s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on font style and lug design
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII boom in accessible horology where gold styling became a standard for professional dress codes.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Significant brassing (wear through the gold plating) on the lugs and case edges. The stainless steel back shows surface scratching.
Value Estimate
$30 - $80 USD. Value is primarily in the movement/brand for parts or restoration, as the gold content has no melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use jewelry cleaners or ultrasonic tanks; the gold plating is thin and can be stripped. Wipe with a dry microfiber cloth only. Keep away from moisture as seals are likely degraded.
Similar Items
Vintage Longines, Omega, or Tissot gold-capped watches which use a thicker layer of gold than standard plating.
Interesting Facts
Aretta was a popular mid-tier brand in the Mediterranean market (specifically Italy and Yugoslavia) during the mid-20th century, often sourcing high-quality Swiss ebauche movements.